This curated selection of films delves into the harrowing yet inspiring stories of partisans during WWII, focusing on their lives in underground bunkers. These films not only provide a glimpse into the harsh realities of war but also celebrate the resilience and ingenuity of those who fought from the shadows. Each film in this collection offers a unique perspective on the guerrilla warfare and the spirit of resistance, making it an invaluable watch for history enthusiasts and film lovers alike.

The Ascent (1977)
Description: Two Soviet partisans, after their group is ambushed, seek shelter in a bunker and face moral dilemmas and survival challenges.
Fact: The film won the Golden Prize at the 10th Moscow International Film Festival and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.


The Dawns Here Are Quiet (1972)
Description: This Soviet film captures the lives of female anti-aircraft gunners who, after being cut off from their unit, take refuge in a bunker and engage in a fierce battle against German forces.
Fact: The film was based on a novel by Boris Vasilyev, which was inspired by real events. It was remade in 2015 with a modern twist.


The Battle of Neretva (1969)
Description: This Yugoslavian epic includes scenes of partisans using bunkers for strategic operations during their fight against Axis forces.
Fact: It was one of the most expensive films ever made in Yugoslavia and featured an international cast including Yul Brynner and Orson Welles.


Come and See (1985)
Description: A Belarusian boy joins a partisan group and experiences the horrors of war, including hiding in bunkers to evade Nazi forces.
Fact: The film was shot in the actual locations where the events took place, giving it an authentic feel. It's known for its intense realism and psychological depth.


The Brest Fortress (2010)
Description: While not exclusively about partisans, this film includes scenes of soldiers retreating to bunkers during the defense of Brest Fortress against the German invasion.
Fact: The film was shot in the actual Brest Fortress, providing a real backdrop to the events depicted.


The Unvanquished (1964)
Description: A French film about the French Resistance, with scenes of partisans operating from hidden bunkers.
Fact: The film was directed by Alain Cavalier, who won the Prix Jean Vigo for his work on this film.


The Partisans (1963)
Description: A British film that follows a group of partisans in Yugoslavia, showcasing their use of bunkers for guerrilla warfare.
Fact: The film was shot on location in Yugoslavia, providing an authentic setting for the story.


The Unknown Soldier (1955)
Description: While primarily about the Finnish Continuation War, it includes scenes of soldiers retreating to and operating from bunkers.
Fact: This film is considered one of the most important Finnish war films, based on a novel by Väinö Linna.


The Bridge (1959)
Description: A German film about young soldiers defending a bridge, with scenes of them taking cover in bunkers.
Fact: It was one of the first German films to deal with the subject of the Wehrmacht critically.


The Red Chapel (1960)
Description: This Danish film includes scenes of resistance fighters using bunkers to hide from the Nazis during WWII.
Fact: The film was directed by Gabriel Axel, who later won an Academy Award for "Babette's Feast."
