Scene from 'The Four Feathers'

Those closest to a British officer (Heath Ledger, left) think he is a coward after he resigns his post just before battle in 'The Four Feathers'. Also starring Wes Bentley. (PARAMOUNT PICTURES)

The Hartford Courant

September 1, 2002
Previously filmed in 1921, 1928 and 1939, and remade for television in 1958 as "Storm Over the Nile," this tale of cowardice and courage based on an A.E.W. Mason story pits British troops against Muslims in a Sudan uprising led by the Mahdi.

Heath Ledger now plays the officer who resigns his post and receives four feathers, signifying cowardice from his friends. Then he goes undercover to save his comrades.

Wes Bentley plays a friend; Kate Hudson is the fiancée; and Djimon Hounsou and Michael Sheen have featured roles. Shekhar Kapur ("Elizabeth") directs. PG-13.