Film Review - Love Courage And The Battle Of Bushy Run (2024)

Relatively unknown in the scope of famous US War stories, this true of a 1793 Western Pennsylvania battle with determined soldier Colonel Henry Bouquet at the forefront, is a rewarding indie film with high emotion and great production qualities.

Quintessential to proceedings is charismatic lead, Tom Connolly as Bouquet, this accomplished actor impressively goes to great lengths bringing varied emotions of the courageous Colonel to life.
Including falling in love within the middle of chaotic strains of war.

Tom has genuine chemistry with romantic interest, socialite Anne Willing (unique, exceptionally talented Rachele Schank) the pair work to great effect, Sharing entertaining, intimate and quaint moments are integral to the whole story.

The mixed bunch of combat enforcers consist of British soldiers, American volunteers and most importantly to story and humorous aspects, a team of Scottish Highlanders, all work together under the guidance of Bouquet to protect the outpost of Fort Pitt.

Siding with the French troops, Indigenous determination to retaliate arises when native population is left behind in the aftermath of an ongoing fight.

Fearful of being attacked in a strike of revenge by the British, they strike first.

On the way to Fort Pitt, the native American contingent took out other forts and their inhabitants, also whatever British soldiers in the vicinity.

It is up to Bouquet and his enthusiastic band of brothers to save a ton of men, women and children’s lives from certain annihilation.

Historically accurate is how legendary co-producers, co-directors Dave Alan Johnson, Larry A. Mclean have described their film, bringing the long gestating screenplay by Charlie Richards to life.

As mentioned, Connolly is a perfect casting accomplishment as Bouquet, his inspirational military monologues are certainly not up there with the Mel Gibson heights of Braveheart (1995), Tom is brilliant.

Rachele not only looks wonderful in period costume, her mannerisms and style also work perfectly. The great Adam Baldwin (The X-Files, Full Metal Jacket) isn’t in it long enough as a middle-man General.
Unanimously cool, Rachel Hendrix is a dynamic presence as Phoebe, again not in it enough.

Well worth watching this adaptation of a lesser known historical event that has heart and indie extravagance, an accomplishment on a limited time and budget.