When Hell Was in Session
This film describes Navy Commander Jeremiah Denton's 7-and-a-half years as a prisoner of war. Held in numerous, brutal POW camps, he faced starvation, torture and terrible living conditions brought on by his North Vietnamese captors in an effort to keep communication alive between the prisoners. His wife, Jane, is also arranging a POW wives league in the U.S. in order to popularize their plight.
Insights
Plot Summary
Based on the true story of Navy Lieutenant Jeremiah A. Denton Jr., this film chronicles his experiences as a prisoner of war during the Vietnam War. Denton refuses to be broken by his captors, maintaining his dignity and resolve throughout his ordeal. The narrative focuses on his psychological struggle, his acts of defiance, and his eventual release.
Critical Reception
The film was met with a generally positive reception, praised for its powerful portrayal of resilience and the human spirit under duress. While some found the pacing slow, the performances, particularly Hal Linden's, were widely commended for their authenticity and emotional depth.
What Reviewers Say
- A compelling and often harrowing depiction of a POW's resilience.
- Hal Linden delivers a strong, empathetic performance as the captured lieutenant.
- The film effectively captures the psychological toll of captivity and the strength of the human spirit.
Google audience: Audience reviews highlight the film's emotional impact and the moving performance by Hal Linden, with many appreciating its focus on the psychological aspects of being a prisoner of war.
Fun Fact
The film is based on the real-life experiences of U.S. Navy Admiral Jeremiah Denton, who was a POW in Vietnam for over seven years and famously read a statement during a televised press conference arranged by his captors, maintaining his composure despite the circumstances.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources