Lukas Dhont explores vulnerability in new war film Coward

Belgian director Lukas Dhont has released his new feature film, Coward, which offers an atypical perspective on the First World War. Rather than focusing on battlefield violence or combat, the film explores the lives of soldiers behind the lines on the Belgian side of the front.

The narrative centers on the psychological and social experiences of soldiers, such as Pierre, a conscript tasked with transporting heavy artillery shells and managing the wounded and deceased. The film examines themes of identity, intimacy, and masculinity, highlighting how soldiers sought connection and relief from the absence of female energy by performing domestic roles and engaging in moments of affection.

Dhont, known for his previous works Girl and Close, aims to showcase a side of masculinity that is often overlooked in traditional war cinema. By focusing on the mental health and vulnerability of men in a high-pressure environment, the film seeks to provide a different lens through which to view the reality of war.