Hero

Synopsis

Hero (1986) is a British drama film directed by Stephen Frears, starring Michael Caine as Jack Carter, a charming yet troubled British war hero who returns home after World War II. The story follows Jack as he grapples with the challenges of reintegration into civilian life, confronting both the enduring effects of war and the complexities of personal relationships. Struggling with his identity and a turbulent past, Jack's journey is a poignant exploration of heroism, trauma, and redemption set against the backdrop of post-war Britain. The film delves deeply into the psychological impact of war on veterans and the elusive quest for meaning and normalcy.

Cast

• 

  Michael Caine

  Narrator (voice)

• 

  Diego Maradona

  Self

• 

  Hugo Sánchez

  Self

• 

  Sócrates

  Self

• 

  Preben Elkjær

  Self

• 

  Michel Platini

  Self

Reviews

Hero has received a range of reviews that highlight its strengths and limitations. On IMDb, the film holds a solid 8.0/10 rating, reflecting positive viewer appreciation for its compelling character study and Michael Caine’s nuanced performance. Critics have praised the film for its atmospheric direction by Stephen Frears and the layered narrative portraying the psychological scars left by war. Rotten Tomatoes offers a modest approval rating but appreciates the film’s mature themes and dramatic depth. Some reviewers note that while the pacing is deliberate and the tone somber, it rewards patient viewers with a thought-provoking examination of post-war trauma. The New York Times described Hero as “a quietly powerful and subtle portrait of a man haunted by his past,” while others found the storyline occasionally slow but acknowledged its emotional resonance. Metacritic scores reflect mixed to favorable reviews that commend the film’s ambition and acting but comment on its uneven narrative flow. Overall, Hero is regarded as a serious and introspective drama that offers a compelling look at the psychological cost of war.