Genres: War, Drama, Action
Release Date: August 21, 2009

Director: Quentin Tarantino
Main Cast:

• Brad Pitt as Lt. Aldo Raine
• Christoph Waltz as Col. Hans Landa
• Mélanie Laurent as Shosanna Dreyfus
• Eli Roth as Sgt. Donny Donowitz
• Michael Fassbender as Lt. Archie Hicox
• Diane Kruger as Bridget von Hammersmark
• Til Schweiger as Sgt. Hugo Stiglitz

Plot Summary

Set during World War II, Inglourious Basterds weaves together two parallel stories of vengeance against the Nazis.

One follows Shosanna Dreyfus (Mélanie Laurent), a young Jewish woman who escapes a massacre orchestrated by the cunning and ruthless Col. Hans Landa (Christoph Waltz). Years later, she reinvents herself as the owner of a Parisian cinema, secretly plotting to destroy the Nazi high command during a propaganda film premiere.

Meanwhile, Lt. Aldo Raine (Brad Pitt) leads a group of Jewish-American soldiers known as the “Basterds.” Their mission? Strike fear into the Nazis with brutal guerrilla tactics, earning a reputation for scalping their enemies and leaving a bloody mark across occupied France.

As fate brings Shosanna and the Basterds’ plans together, the explosive climax redefines the course of history in a way only Quentin Tarantino could envision.

Trailer Highlights

• Hans Landa’s Menace: Christoph Waltz’s chilling portrayal of the “Jew Hunter” sets the tone for a film teeming with tension and dark humor.
• The Basterds’ Ruthless Efficiency: Scenes of Aldo Raine rallying his team, punctuated by Donny Donowitz’s infamous baseball bat “interrogations.”
• A Tale of Revenge: Shosanna’s quiet determination and calculated plans for vengeance provide an emotional backbone to the chaos.
• Explosive Action: Fiery shootouts, daring undercover operations, and a grand finale that delivers Tarantino’s signature over-the-top spectacle.
• Stylish Cinematic Flair: Sharp dialogue, meticulous framing, and a killer soundtrack amplify the film’s unique blend of grit and elegance.

Reception

Inglourious Basterds was a critical and commercial success, earning eight Academy Award nominations and a win for Christoph Waltz as Best Supporting Actor. Tarantino’s bold reimagining of history sparked debate but also admiration for its unapologetic creativity and masterful storytelling.

The film was praised for its intricate, tension-filled scenes, particularly the opening sequence and the high-stakes tavern standoff. Waltz’s performance as Col. Hans Landa was universally lauded, cementing him as one of cinema’s most memorable villains.

Why Watch?

With its mix of razor-sharp dialogue, unforgettable characters, and a narrative that dares to rewrite history, Inglourious Basterds is quintessential Tarantino. Whether you’re drawn to its dark humor, intense drama, or explosive action, this film promises a unique and unforgettable cinematic journey.

Tagline: “Once upon a time in Nazi-occupied France…”