Watch King and Country

King and Country is a 1964 war drama set during World War I, directed by Joseph Losey and based on a play by John Wilson. The film follows Private Hamp, a young soldier who has been charged with desertion while serving in France during the war. Private Hamp is played by Tom Courtenay, whose performance is a standout in the film. He portrays a young man struggling with the horrors of war and the mounting pressure to fight for a cause he doesn't understand. Sentenced to death by his own countrymen, Hamp is saved from execution by Captain Hargreaves, played by Dirk Bogarde.

Captain Hargreaves is a soldier whose own disillusionment has led him to question the purpose of the war. He takes on Hamp's case out of a sense of duty, but soon finds himself sympathizing with the young private. As the trial progresses, Hargreaves becomes more and more embroiled in Hamp's plight, and begins to question whether the young soldier should be held responsible for his actions.

The film is a poignant look at the effects of war on soldiers, and the psychological toll it takes on those who are forced to fight. The performances by Courtenay and Bogarde are powerful and moving, and the story is complex and thought-provoking.

The film also provides a stark look at the attitudes of the time towards mental illness and trauma. Hamp's behavior is interpreted by many as a sign of cowardice, and he is punished accordingly. However, Hargreaves recognizes that the young man is not a coward, but rather a victim of circumstances beyond his control.

Overall, King and Country is a powerful exploration of war, morality, and justice. It is a film that will leave a lasting impression on audiences and spark important discussions about the consequences of violence and conflict.

King and Country is a 2014 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 26 minutes.