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Miracle at St Anna (2008) is a gripping war drama directed by Spike Lee. Set in Christmas of 1983, the film follows a New York postal clerk named Hector Negron, who shoots a stranger in his apartment. When the police arrive, they discover a valuable Italian marble head that had been missing since World War II.
The story unfolds through flashbacks, taking us back to the war-torn Italy of 1944. We learn about four Black soldiers, known as Buffalo Soldiers, who are tasked with crossing the dangerous Serchio River in Tuscany. They face the constant threat of German soldiers and friendly fire. Along the way, they encounter a young Italian boy who has been traumatized by the war.
The soldiers eventually arrive in the village of Colognora, where they receive orders to capture a German soldier for interrogation. In the village, they become entangled in a web of secrets and alliances involving a beautiful woman, partisans, a traitor, and a local legend. As the story unfolds, we also learn about a recent massacre that deeply affects the lives of the villagers.
Miracle at St Anna is a powerful film that explores the themes of war, sacrifice, and redemption. It sheds light on the often-overlooked contributions of Black soldiers in World War II and the impact of war on both soldiers and civilians. With its gripping storyline and stellar performances, this film is a must-watch for fans of war dramas and historical narratives.
