Five Came Back Poster

Five Came Back 2017

★ 7.945 votes195 min📅 2017-03-31

"They showed the war to the world."

Dive into the gripping world of *Five Came Back (2017)*, Laurent Bouzereau's compelling documentary that uncovers an untold chapter of Hollywood's golden age.

Director: Laurent Bouzereau

Cast

Meryl Streep
Meryl Streep
Narrator (voice)
Francis Ford Coppola
Francis Ford Coppola
Self
Steven Spielberg
Steven Spielberg
Self
Paul Greengrass
Paul Greengrass
Self
Guillermo del Toro
Guillermo del Toro
Self
Lawrence Kasdan
Lawrence Kasdan
Self
John Ford
John Ford
Self (archive footage)
William Wyler
William Wyler
Self (archive footage)
John Huston
John Huston
Self (archive footage)
Frank Capra
Frank Capra
Self (archive footage)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Five Came Back (2017) about?

*Five Came Back* follows five iconic directors who swapped Hollywood sets for war zones during World War II. Using their cameras as weapons, they documented battles, soldier stories, and the grim realities of war to bring the truth home to America. The documentary weaves their personal and professional journeys into a powerful narrative about art, duty, and the cost of truth.

Who directed Five Came Back?

*Five Came Back* was directed by Laurent Bouzereau, known for his deep dives into film history and his collaborations with major studios.

Who stars in Five Came Back?

The documentary features insights from Meryl Streep, Francis Ford Coppola, Steven Spielberg, Paul Greengrass, and Guillermo del Toro, among others.

Is Five Came Back (2017) worth watching?

Absolutely—if you love cinema, history, or stories of unsung heroes, this documentary is a must-see. Its blend of archival footage, expert analysis, and personal tributes makes it both educational and deeply moving. While it's not a theatrical release, its impact lingers long after the credits roll.

How long is Five Came Back?

The runtime of *Five Came Back* is 195 minutes, offering an immersive and detailed exploration of its themes.

🎥 Trailer

About Five Came Back (2017) — How Five Filmmakers Shaped WWII History

Dive into the gripping world of *Five Came Back (2017)*, Laurent Bouzereau's compelling documentary that uncovers an untold chapter of Hollywood's golden age. This film explores how five legendary directors—John Ford, William Wyler, John Huston, Frank Capra, and George Stevens—left their glamorous careers to document World War II, risking everything to expose the raw truth to the American public. Through archival footage, interviews with contemporary filmmakers like Meryl Streep and Steven Spielberg, and expert commentary, the documentary paints a vivid portrait of wartime resilience, sacrifice, and the transformative power of cinema. The atmosphere is both reverent and urgent, capturing the directors' unwavering dedication to their craft and country amidst the chaos of war.

The film doesn't just recount history—it immerses viewers in the era, blending personal stories with the broader cultural impact of Hollywood's wartime contributions. By examining how these directors shaped public perception and documented reality, *Five Came Back* becomes a tribute to the indelible mark left by filmmakers who risked their lives for the truth.