What Is Danger Close About?
The premise of Danger Close in 275 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.
In the blistering heat of modern battlefields, Alex Quade arrives armed with a camera instead of a rifle, determined to capture the raw, unfiltered reality of war. She embeds herself with an elite U.S. Special Operations unit operating deep in Iraq and Afghanistan, trading the safety of a press bunker for the unpredictable chaos of frontline missions. The world she steps into is a stark contrast of scorching deserts, rugged mountains, and the ever‑present hum of drones overhead, where every moment can pivot from routine patrol to sudden, life‑threatening contact.
The tone of the film is immersive and unflinching, blending the gritty texture of combat footage with an intimate, almost journalistic curiosity. Alex brings a skeptical, empathetic eye to the soldiers she follows, seeking to understand not only the tactical decisions but the personal sacrifices that shape each warrior. The Special Operations team, bound by a code of brotherhood and relentless training, moves as a tightly knit unit, their silent communication and razor‑sharp focus forming a compelling counterpoint to Alex’s probing questions and observant lens. Their interactions reveal a fragile balance between duty and humanity, hinting at stories that linger long after the smoke clears.
As the camera rolls, the audience is invited to experience the tension that hangs over every checkpoint, the quiet moments of camaraderie amidst the roar of artillery, and the moral complexities that arise when war is seen through both the soldier’s visor and the reporter’s viewfinder. The film promises a visceral, respect‑laden portrait of modern combat, where bravery and vulnerability coexist, and where Alex’s quest for truth becomes a conduit for viewers to glimpse the unseen faces behind the headlines.
What Happens in Danger Close?
The complete story of Danger Close, from the first scene to the last, in 713 words (about 3 minutes). Spoilers throughout. Names in the text link to 10 cast member pages.
Spoilers ahead
Australia and New Zealand deployed their troops to Vietnam in support of the United States’ effort against communism, consisting mainly of young conscripts and volunteers, with an average age of merely 20 years. Most of these soldiers enter the fray with little to no experience in combat situations.
The film begins dramatically with a mortar strike targeting the 1st Australian Task Force (1 ATF) base at Nui Dat, carried out by the Viet Cong (VC) and the People’s Army of Vietnam (PAVN). Amid the chaos, Major Harry Smith, played by Travis Fimmel, remains composed as he directs his unit, Delta Company, to seek cover, while other soldiers, unfazed, indulge in card games and beer.
The base is manned by a variety of personnel, including Captain Morrie Stanley (Aaron Glenane), Warrant Officer Class Two Jack Kirby (Alexander England), Bombardier Ray Ngatai (Uli Latukefu), Private Paul Large (Daniel Webber), and Private Noel Grimes (Nicholas Hamilton). New recruits Private Frank Topp (Jullian Cullen) and Private Colin Whiston (Sam Fraser) also join Delta Company.
Meanwhile, Second Lieutenant Gordon Sharp (Mojean Aria), tasked with locating the mortar’s source, is distracted, opting to play cards with his men instead of following orders from Major Smith. Luckily, Sergeant Bob Buick (Luke Bracey) steps in, assisting Harry in tracking the mortar’s origin. In charge of the artillery unit is Lieutenant Colonel Colin Townsend (Anthony Hayes).
The Australians are ultimately able to repel the initial attack through counter-battery fire, successfully neutralizing the enemy mortar crew. However, the casual attitude of many toward the war is evident; Harry reprimands Private Large for drinking during patrol duty right as they’re under attack. Kirby, concerned about Harry’s leadership, confronts him, stating that he runs his company more rigorously than any other.
Feeling unappreciated among conscripts, Harry seeks a transfer to a commando unit, but his request is denied by Brigadier Jackson, who orders him to adhere to Townsend’s commands. Following the attack, Major Smith volunteers Delta Company, 6th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (6 RAR) to scout a rubber plantation near Long Tân, but is turned down; instead, Bravo Company receives the task and finds no enemy presence.
The following day, Delta Company is directed to replace Bravo and misses an anticipated performance by Australian musicians Little Pattie (Emmy Dougall) and Col Joye. Tracking fresh enemy footprints, they soon engage in combat, with 11 Platoon, under Sharp’s leadership, first making contact with a VC patrol. Heavy machine gun fire ensues, and though Harry dispatches 10 Platoon for reinforcement, they, too, find themselves in intense skirmishes with the enemy.
As hostilities escalate, 11 Platoon’s situation worsens, forcing them to call for artillery fire, which is precariously close to their position. This risky maneuver effectively stalls the advancing VC but comes at a cost, with bleak news filtering back to Harry about the overwhelming enemy numbers.
Determining they face a battalion of 700 to 800 soldiers, Harry urgently requests reinforcements, including Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs) and air support. Although Jackson eventually agrees to send air support, the situation becomes precarious, as their reconnaissance efforts fail to locate necessary markers. Realizing the grave situation, Buick suggests they target their own men with artillery fire, a heart-wrenching choice that Harry must concede to.
As tension mounts, with the base under threat of VC encirclement, Harry orchestrates a withdrawal to avert further losses. Under now dire conditions and low on ammunition amid monsoon downpours, they seek helicopter resupply. Although initially hesitant, two brave RAAF pilots step in to deliver essential supplies under enemy fire.
Rearmed yet still outmatched, Harry devises a rescue operation to save 11 Platoon, and against all odds, they locate survivors. News of their finding breathes new life into the beleaguered base, inspiring the troops. Ultimately, a reluctant Jackson must send APCs to aid Delta, risking the loss of the base itself.
As the battle culminates, with Harry bravely fighting off VC forces, reinforcements finally arrive. Tragically, despite the victory, a beloved soldier, Largie, falls in the line of duty. In a poignant finale, the film pays tribute to the sacrifices made, revealing the harrowing truth of the Battle of Long Tan, where a mere 108 Australian and New Zealand soldiers bravely withstood the onslaught of over 2000 North Vietnamese soldiers, resulting in significant casualties on both sides.
Danger Close Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
15 key events in the order they happen, from “Deployment to Vietnam” to “The Battle of Long Tan”. 9 events name a place, across 5 locations.
- 1
Deployment to Vietnam
Australia and New Zealand deployed their troops to Vietnam to support the United States' efforts against communism. The force primarily included young conscripts and volunteers, many of whom were only 20 years old and lacked combat experience.
Where:Vietnam
- 2
Mortar Strike on 1 ATF Base
The film begins with a dramatic mortar strike targeting the 1st Australian Task Force (1 ATF) base at Nui Dat. Amidst the chaos, Major Harry Smith takes charge, directing his unit, Delta Company, to seek cover while others remain unfazed, continuing to play cards and drink beer.
Where:Nui Dat
- 3
Introduction of Delta Company Personnel
The base is manned by key personnel including Captain Morrie Stanley, Warrant Officer Class Two Jack Kirby, and Bombardier Ray Ngatai. New recruits Private Frank Topp and Private Colin Whiston join Delta Company, adding to the dynamic of the unit amidst the tension.
Where:Nui Dat
- 4
Second Lieutenant Sharp's Distraction
Second Lieutenant Gordon Sharp, who is supposed to locate the source of the mortar fire, chooses to play cards with his men instead of following Major Smith's orders. This decision highlights the carefree attitude some soldiers hold in the face of danger, but Sergeant Bob Buick intervenes to help Harry track the mortar's origin.
Where:Nui Dat
- 5
Counterattack Against Mortar Crew
The Australians manage to repel the initial mortar attack through effective counter-battery fire, successfully neutralizing the enemy mortar crew. Major Smith’s leadership is tested as he reprimands Private Large for drinking during a critical patrol duty.
Where:Nui Dat
- 6
Major Smith's Transfer Request Denied
Feeling unappreciated among the conscripts, Major Harry Smith requests a transfer to a commando unit. However, Brigadier Jackson denies his request, insisting that he follow the command structure under Lieutenant Colonel Colin Townsend.
Where:Nui Dat
- 7
Delta Company Scouts Rubber Plantation
After the initial attack, Major Smith offers Delta Company to scout a nearby rubber plantation. Instead, the task is assigned to Bravo Company, who finds no enemy presence, showcasing the chaotic nature of the operations.
Where:Rubber Plantation near Long Tân
- 8
Engagement with VC Patrol
Delta Company is later tasked to replace Bravo Company and soon encounters fresh enemy footprints. They engage in combat with a Viet Cong patrol, marking the beginning of intense skirmishes as 11 Platoon makes first contact with the enemy.
Where:Near Long Tân
- 9
Calling for Artillery Fire
As the battle escalates, 11 Platoon finds themselves in a dire situation and calls for artillery support. The artillery fire, albeit risky and dangerously close to their position, effectively stalls the advancing Viet Cong forces.
- 10
Request for Reinforcements
Determined they face overwhelming numbers, Major Smith requests reinforcements, including Armored Personnel Carriers and air support. The urgency of the request reflects the dire circumstances faced by Australian troops.
Show the other 5 events of Danger Close Hide the last 5 events
- 11
Heart-wrenching Decision on Artillery Fire
As tensions rise, with a threat of encirclement, Major Smith comes to a harrowing decision suggested by Sergeant Buick. They decide to target their own men with artillery fire to stop the advancing VC, a choice laden with moral weight.
- 12
Withdrawal Decision
Amidst dwindling ammunition and fierce monsoon rains, Major Smith orchestrates a strategic withdrawal to save his troops. Each moment is critical as they navigate their way through low supplies and encroaching enemy forces.
- 13
Helicopter Resupply Under Fire
In a desperate bid, Major Smith requests helicopter resupplies, and two brave RAAF pilots deliver essential supplies amidst enemy fire. This act of courage is pivotal in rearming the beleaguered soldiers.
- 14
Rescue Operation for 11 Platoon
With renewed supplies, Harry devises a rescue operation for the trapped 11 Platoon. Against all odds, they locate survivors, which breathes hope and inspiration into the beleaguered ranks of Delta Company.
- 15
The Battle of Long Tan
The battle culminates with Major Smith bravely fighting off the VC forces as reinforcements finally arrive. Despite the victory, the film tragically highlights the loss of beloved soldiers, exemplifying the brutal cost of war and the sacrifices they made.
Where:Long Tan
Who Are the Main Characters in Danger Close?
3 characters, among them Major Harry Smith (Travis Fimmel), Captain Morrie Stanley (Aaron Glenane) and Private Paul Large (Daniel Webber): who each one is and the part they play in the story.
- MH
Major Harry Smith (Travis Fimmel)
Major Harry Smith is a composed and determined leader who navigates the chaos of battle with strategic acumen. His focus on the safety of his unit reflects his sense of responsibility, even as he seeks recognition for his efforts. Smith's character embodies the struggles of leadership during warfare, facing both internal conflict and external pressures.
- 🎖️ Leadership
- 🧠 Strategy
- ⚠️ Conflict
- CM
Captain Morrie Stanley (Aaron Glenane)
Captain Morrie Stanley serves as a supportive officer, navigating the complexities of war alongside Major Smith. He displays bravery and camaraderie, contributing to the morale of the unit. His character highlights the importance of teamwork and loyalty in overcoming the adversities faced by soldiers.
- 🤝 Camaraderie
- 💪 Bravery
- 🎖️ Support
- PP
Private Paul Large (Daniel Webber)
Private Paul Large is depicted as a youthful soldier who grapples with the realities of war, often exhibiting a carefree attitude until forced to confront danger. His character journey reflects the transition from innocence to the harsh truths of combat, underscoring the mental toll on young conscripts.
- 😇 Innocence
- 🎭 Transformation
- ⚔️ Combat
Where and When Is Danger Close Set?
Danger Close is set in Nui Dat and Vietnam (Vietnam War Era (1960s)). Here is why the time and place matter to the story.
When
Vietnam War Era (1960s)
The story unfolds during the Vietnam War, a turbulent period marked by intense conflict as various nations intervened in the fight against communism. Young soldiers, often ill-prepared, faced the brutal realities of warfare while navigating complex military strategies and the chaos of battle. The era highlighted themes of sacrifice and the impacts of war on humanity.
Where
Nui Dat, Vietnam
The film is set primarily in Nui Dat, where the 1st Australian Task Force established its base during the Vietnam War. This strategic location was pivotal, serving as a hub for troop deployment and military operations. Nearby, rubber plantations became a flashpoint for combat, where both sides engaged in fierce skirmishes.
- 🏞️ Battlefield
- 🌳 Rubber Plantation
What Are the Themes of Danger Close?
3 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Sacrifice, Heroism and Desperation.
-
01
Sacrifice
The film poignantly explores the theme of sacrifice, illustrating the harrowing choices faced by soldiers in battle. It emphasizes the emotional and physical toll of warfare, where bravery is met with loss and mourning. The sacrifices made by the characters resonate deeply, reflecting the cost of conflict on individual lives and families.
-
02
Heroism
Heroism is a central theme, depicted through the courage and resilience of the soldiers in the face of overwhelming odds. Major Harry Smith's leadership embodies the spirit of heroism, as he navigates the challenges of combat and rallies his men to persevere. The story celebrates the valor and determination of those who fought in difficult circumstances.
-
03
Desperation
The theme of desperation permeates the narrative, showcasing the dire conditions faced by the troops during the battle. As they grapple with dwindling supplies and intense enemy fire, the characters' mental and emotional states are tested. This theme highlights the bleak realities of warfare, where hope and despair coexist amid chaos.
What Kind of Film Is Danger Close?
Tense in tone, with fast pacing and a straightforward story, going by the plot summary.
- Tone
- Tense
- Pacing
- Fast
- Story
- Straightforward
- Intensity
- High
- Ending
- Bittersweet
A relentlessly tense and gritty war drama that plunges viewers into the chaos of a desperate battle, balancing a sense of heroic determination with the heavy, tragic cost of survival.
- tense
- gritty
- urgent
- bleak
- heroic
- tragic
- war survival
- military courage
- sacrifice
- battle tactics
Content notes: war violence, combat death, military casualties, graphic battlefield scenes.
Quiz
How well do you remember Danger Close? Test yourself on the story.
Where to Watch Danger Close
Stream it on Amazon MX Player and Amazon Prime Video, or rent or buy it from Amazon Video and Apple TV Store. US availability and prices from JustWatch.
Stream 7
Amazon MX Player 
Amazon Prime Video 
Amazon Prime Video Free with Ads 
Amazon Prime Video with Ads 
Plex 
Plex Channel 
The Roku Channel 
Streaming availability in the US, powered by 
