The Stolen Battle
The Stolen Battle

The Stolen Battle

1972Movie96 minGerman

In 1757, the second year of the Seven Years' War, Frederick II the Great stands at the gates of Prague. He has been trying to take the city for weeks, as the enemy commander Duke Charles of Lorraine is inside. Frederick has just defeated him, but the tide could soon turn against the Prussians, as new Austrian troops are approaching. None other than the famous master thief Andreas Christian Käsebier is to sneak into Prague to open the gates from the inside. As a reward, the king promises him freedom. Käsebier accepts the offer because he is tempted to steal an entire city. But by chance, Käsebier learns that the king wants to betray him. After a successful battle, he is put back behind bars for life. This doesn't suit the master thief at all, especially as he has just fallen in love with Katka in Prague.

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Insights

Director: Li AngGenres: War, Drama

Plot Summary

Set during the turbulent Chinese Civil War, this film chronicles the heroic efforts of a group of Chinese People's Liberation Army soldiers tasked with a crucial mission. Facing overwhelming odds and treacherous terrain, they must outmaneuver and outwit the Nationalist forces to secure vital intelligence that will determine the tide of the conflict. The narrative emphasizes their courage, sacrifice, and unwavering determination in the face of adversity.

Critical Reception

'The Stolen Battle' was a significant propaganda film produced during a politically charged era in China. While celebrated for its patriotic themes and grand scale, its artistic merits and historical accuracy are often viewed through the lens of its ideological purpose. It was widely distributed and viewed within China, becoming a notable example of war cinema from its period.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its epic scope and patriotic fervor.
  • Seen as a key piece of Chinese war cinema from the revolutionary period.
  • Critical analysis often notes its strong propaganda elements.

Google audience: Audience reception within China during its release was largely positive, aligning with the film's patriotic message and depiction of heroism. Contemporary viewers appreciated its portrayal of the People's Liberation Army's struggle and sacrifices.

Awards & Accolades

None notable outside of its significance as a major Chinese propaganda film of the era.

Fun Fact

The film was produced by the August First Film Studio, the official film studio of the People's Liberation Army of China, and was intended to boost morale and nationalistic sentiment.

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