World War II fans have plenty to celebrate this year, from Tom Hanks' upcoming projects to Brendan Fraser's tense D-Day drama Pressure. But one film that slipped under the radar in theaters is finally getting its moment in the spotlight. Lucky Strike, starring Scott Eastwood and Colin Hanks, is set to hit digital platforms on August 4, giving audiences a second chance to experience this gripping war story.
Directed by Rod Lurie, known for the 2019 war film The Outpost, Lucky Strike is inspired by true events. It follows a wounded American soldier trapped behind enemy lines during the Battle of the Bulge, one of the deadliest conflicts of WWII. The film earned modest reviews, with a 60% critics' score and 69% audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes, but its theatrical release was extremely limited, grossing less than $2 million worldwide. In contrast, Pressure brought in nearly $20 million globally, showing the disparity in distribution and marketing.
Now, Lucky Strike is making its way to VOD platforms like Prime Video and Apple TV, where viewers can rent or purchase it starting August 4. This digital release is a welcome opportunity for those who missed it in theaters, and it's a chance for the film to find a wider audience, much like other war movies that have thrived on streaming.
The film's cast is a notable draw, with Scott Eastwood following in his father Clint's footsteps in the war genre. Clint Eastwood's Million Dollar Baby is also returning to Paramount+ this August, making it a good month for fans of the Eastwood legacy. Meanwhile, Colin Hanks, son of Tom Hanks, brings his own gravitas to the role, adding a layer of family intrigue to the project.
Rod Lurie, who co-wrote the script with Marc Frydman, is already working on new projects, including Fated and West Pointer, though details remain under wraps. His experience with military dramas is evident in Lucky Strike, which aims to capture the harrowing reality of war while honoring the resilience of the human spirit.
For those eager to dive into more WWII content, there's no shortage of options. Tom Hanks is currently filming the sequel to Greyhound, and his docuseries World War II with Tom Hanks offers a deep dive into key battles. And if you're in the mood for something different, check out our list of the greatest video game boss fights for a break from history.
Don't miss Lucky Strike when it lands on digital this week. It's a compelling addition to the WWII genre that deserves a second look.
