Set against the harrowing backdrop of World War II, 'Overlord' immerses the audience in the dark and tense atmosphere of June 6, 1944, a day that will be etched into history as D-Day. The film follows the journey of a young man, Jack, portrayed by Davyd Harries, who receives his long-anticipated call to military service. As Jack prepares for the monumental invasion of Normandy, he grapples with feelings of anxiety and foreboding that loom larger with every passing day. This initial transformation from civilian life to soldier embodies the struggles and emotions faced by countless individuals thrust into the chaos of war.
As Jack undergoes rigorous army training, the film deepens its exploration of camaraderie and the harsh realities of military life. Viewers witness the physical and mental challenges that come with building trust among fellow soldiers, one of whom is played by Nicholas Ball as Arthur. The relationships forged in this high-pressure environment serve as both a source of strength and vulnerability, adding emotional depth to the narrative. The conversations and interactions between Jack and Arthur highlight their hopes and fears, offering a poignant reminder of the humanity that persists amid the brutality of combat.
As D-Day approaches, the tension escalates, culminating in a gripping portrayal of the soldiers' harrowing journey into battle. The film blends elements of war and horror, as it reveals not only the strategic military operation but also the sinister and supernatural forces that lurk behind the scenes, threatening to turn the tide of the war. Through Jack's poignant transformation and the chilling events that unfold, 'Overlord' captures the essence of heroism, sacrifice, and the struggle for survival against overwhelming odds, making it a compelling addition to the World War II narrative.
Full Cast of Overlord
Davyd Harries delivers a compelling performance as Jack in the 2018 film "Overlord," directed by Julius Avery. As a central figure within the ensemble cast, Harries' portrayal of Jack is both authentic and emotionally resonant. He brings to life the character's transformation from a naive young soldier to a hardened warrior, showcasing a depth of range that anchors the film's human element amidst its adrenaline-fueled action. Jack's journey is one of the most compelling arcs in the narrative, and Harries navigates this evolution with a natural gravitas that allows the audience to empathize with his plight. His interactions with the other characters are laced with a sincerity that highlights the camaraderie and tension inherent in a war narrative, while his physicality in the action sequences underscores the brutality and chaos of the film's alternate historical setting. Harries' performance is a testament to his ability to balance intensity with vulnerability, making Jack a memorable character in this genre-bending tale of war and horror.
Nicholas Ball's performance as Arthur in the 1975 film "Overlord" is a compelling portrayal of a Scottish soldier in the days leading up to D-Day. Ball brings a depth of emotion and a sense of authenticity to the role, effectively capturing the tension and camaraderie among the troops. His depiction of Arthur's internal struggle, torn between his duty and his personal misgivings about the war, resonates with the audience. Ball's nuanced acting allows viewers to empathize with Arthur's moral dilemma and the weight of the impending operation. His interactions with fellow cast members are genuine, and his performance is a standout element in this gripping war drama, contributing to the film's overall impact and its exploration of the human side of warfare.
John Franklyn-Robbins delivered a poignant and understated performance as the character simply known as Dad in the 1975 film "Overlord." His portrayal served as the emotional anchor of the movie, which juxtaposes the intimate story of a young soldier's last days before D-Day with the grand scale of the war effort. Franklyn-Robbins brought a gentle gravity to the role, conveying the quiet despair and resilient hope of a man who senses the impending loss of his son to the ravages of war. His interactions with the protagonist, played by Brian Stirner, are filled with a palpable tenderness and a sense of impending doom, as he represents the generation of parents who were helplessly watching their children being sent off to an uncertain future. Franklyn-Robbins's performance is notable for its nuance and depth, as he embodies the duality of pride and fear, articulating the silent scream of every parent who has ever sent a child to war, making his character's brief screen time deeply memorable and emotionally resonant.
Sam Sewell
The Trained Soldier
Harry Shacklock
Stationmaster
David Scheuer
Medical Officer
Stephen Riddle
Dead German Soldier
Micaela Minelli
Little Girl
Elsa Minelli
Little Girl's Mother
Crew of Overlord
Full backstage crew list →
