The story begins in 1944, with Lieutenant Thomas Hart (played by Colin Farrell), a young and idealistic officer in the United States Army, who is captured by the Germans and sent to a POW camp in Germany. Upon arrival, Hart is assigned to Barracks 27, where he encounters a diverse group of American soldiers, including Colonel William McNamara (played by Bruce Willis), a senior officer and veteran of the war.
As Hart settles into life in the camp, he quickly realizes that tensions are high among the prisoners, with simmering conflicts between the African-American soldiers and their white counterparts. Despite the challenges of living under the harsh conditions of the camp, Hart forms close bonds with his fellow prisoners and earns the respect of his peers.
However, tensions escalate when two black pilots, Lieutenant Lamar Archer (played by Terrence Howard) and Lieutenant Lincoln Scott (played by Vicellous Reon Shannon), are accused of murdering a fellow prisoner, Sergeant Bedford. The men are quickly arrested and face the prospect of a court-martial trial, where they could potentially face the death penalty if found guilty.
Determined to seek justice for his fellow soldiers, Hart volunteers to serve as the defense attorney for Archer and Scott, despite having no legal training or experience. With the help of McNamara, who provides guidance and support from behind the scenes, Hart begins to prepare his case and uncover the truth behind Bedford’s death.
As the trial unfolds, Hart faces numerous challenges and obstacles, including opposition from the German camp commandant, Colonel Werner Visser (played by Marcel Iures), who is determined to see the defendants convicted and punished. With the odds stacked against him, Hart must use all of his intelligence, resourcefulness, and courage to mount a defense and prove the innocence of his clients.
In a gripping climax, Hart uncovers evidence that exonerates Archer and Scott and implicates another prisoner as the true culprit behind Bedford’s murder. With the truth revealed and justice served, the men are acquitted of all charges, and Hart emerges as a hero, hailed for his bravery and integrity in the face of adversity.
In the end, “Hart’s War” is a powerful and thought-provoking film that explores themes of honor, courage, and sacrifice in the midst of war. Through its compelling storyline, complex characters, and emotional depth, the film offers a gripping portrayal of the human spirit and the enduring power of justice and camaraderie in times of adversity.