'Must see' Netflix war movie is 'more than just a film' and fans can't stop watching
Gunnar Sønsteby was a resistance fighter in Norway during World War Two and, along with other members of the Oslo Gang, repeatedly risked his life for his country
A heartbreaking World War Two movie now streaming on Netflix has been hailed a "must watch" by fans, who have been left in tears over the true story.
Number 24 tells the real life story of the Norwegian resistance fighter Gunnar Sønsteby, who was the leader of the Oslo Gang during the Second World War. The heroic gang led a number of sabotage operations during the course of the conflict, risking their lives for the freedom of their country.
Sønsteby was working as accountant when the Nazis invaded Norway in 1940 and joined the Norwegian forces to fight in Eastern Norway. Soon after, he joined the resistance movement.
During the course of the war, Sønsteby was arrested by the Gestapo several times but during one imprisonment he managed to convinced the Gestapo he was not the man they were hunting and was released. He continued his work with intelligence missions and even taking on missions for the British Legation in Stockholm.
He was involved in some of the most daring missions of World War Two and had many aliases and nicknames. At the end of the conflict Sønsteby moved to Boston where he studied at Harvard.
Number 24, directed by John Andreas Andersen, depicts some of the most daring operations undertaken by the Oslo Gang and is named after one of Sønsteby's most famous nicknames.
The has a perfect score on the movie review site, Rotten Tomatoes. One critic said: "Number 24 powerfully portrays Gunnar Sønsteby’s heroic fight for freedom during World War II. Despite a few teething issues with the editing, the film gets the message across without compromising the story."
Fans also loved the emotional true story, hailing is as "more than a film".
One viewer said: "This war movie was really good. Sjur Vatne Brean, Magnus Dugdale, Ulrik William Graesli, and the rest of the cast did an excellent job in this movie. This true story about war hero Gunnar Sonsteby was dramatic, heroic, and tragic. It's about fighting for freedom at a high cost. If you haven't seen this movie yet, check it out sometime. It's a must see."
Another added: "A difficult and humbling film to watch. It made me reflect on my life and appreciate what I have thanks to such dedicated heros. This movie will stick with me for a long time."
Others agreed it was a movie that would have a profound impact on their lives.
One said: "Number 24 is more than just a film—it’s an experience. It will make you laugh, cry, and cheer, leaving you inspired and deeply touched. Whether you're a fan of sports dramas or simply someone who loves a beautifully told story, Number 24 is a cinematic gem that will stay with you long after you leave the theater."
Another added: "Director John Andreas Andersen’s Nr. 24 war film is a masterful storytelling of the frightening phase of an evil despotic usurpation. Nr. 24 is an essential watch that eerily resonates with the state of the world today. The horrendous and brutal stronghold that nazism held over people is a warning that democracy is fragile and if not protected firmly…can be destroyed—a must-see for war film buffs."
Number 24 is streaming on Netflix now.