Lukas Dhont returns with 'Coward', a powerful WWI drama about a young Belgian soldier and a morale officer. With a talented cast and Dhont's signature emotional depth, it's a must-see in Belgian cinemas.
Belgian cinema is about to be shaken by Lukas Dhont's latest masterpiece, Coward. Known for his Oscar-nominated Close and Girl, Dhont now turns his unflinching gaze to the trenches of the First World War. The film follows Pierre, a young Belgian soldier desperate to prove his bravery on the battlefield, and Francis, a man tasked with an unusual mission: boosting morale behind the frontlines. Their encounter sets the stage for a deeply moving story that blends drama, romance, and war in Dhont's signature sensitive style.
Dhont has assembled a compelling trio of actors: Emmanuel Macchia, Valentin Campagne, and Jonas Wertz. While they may not be household names yet, Dhont has a proven track record of launching careers—just look at the international breakout of Eden Dambrine and Gustav De Waele in Close. Expect raw, authentic performances that will linger long after the credits roll.
At 120 minutes, Coward takes its time to immerse you in the muddy, claustrophobic world of WWI Belgium. But this is not your typical war epic; Dhont focuses on the intimate, the personal, and the emotional wounds that battle leaves behind. The romance between Pierre and Francis adds a tender counterpoint to the brutality of war, a theme rarely explored in Belgian WWI cinema.
Did you know? While this is Dhont's first foray into historical drama, he has said in interviews that the emotional core of the story—the search for identity and connection—mirrors his previous work. The film was shot in Belgium, with meticulous attention to period detail, and the production team consulted historians to ensure authenticity. Coward hits Belgian cinemas on October 21, 2026. Don't miss it.
