San Pietro (1945)

"San Pietro (1945)" is a raw, unflinching exploration of the harsh realities of World War II, directed by the astute eye of John Huston. This official War Department film delves into the gruelling nine-month battle for San Pietro, a seemingly insignificant Italian village. However, beneath its quaint exterior, San Pietro guards a crucial pathway, a strategic impediment blocking the Allied forces from German terrain. Huston's lens captures the gritty determination of the soldiers, their bravery praised, but doesn't shy away from the brutal truth. Several attempts to seize this pivotal location result in dire failure, the casualty count escalating with each passing day. Over 1,100 US soldiers pay the ultimate price, their lives a testament to the grim toll of war. Despite the film's laudable portrayal of heroism, the War Department shelves it, fearing its stark depiction of the battle's consequences might dampen morale. San Pietro (1945) serves as a poignant reminder of the paradox of war - the mingling of courage and despair, the simultaneous presence of hope and loss. It's a film that will resonate with viewers long after the credits roll, a brutal yet necessary insight into the throes of a world at war.

San Pietro is a documentary movie featuring Mark W. Clark.

San Pietro is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Cineverse, Plex, Plex Player and Tubi TV and it's also available on Amazon Prime Video, Fandor Amazon Channel, FlixFling, MGM Plus Amazon Channel, Paramount Plus Apple TV Channel and fuboTV.

It is also possible to buy San Pietro on Amazon Video and FlixFling.