The HBO series Band of Brothers paid tribute to the American soldiers who were in the Second World War through the eyes of Easy Company’s 101st Airborne Division. Produced by Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg, who continued their association after Saving Private Ryan, the series was widely appreciated for its focus on American troops.
While the show was instrumental in highlighting the troops’ contributions and sacrifice, it was not entirely historically accurate. Based on the book by Stephen Ambrose, who reportedly collected testimonials and interviews from Easy Company veterans, many elements of the series took poetic licence, Tom Hanks signing off on it.
Despite high praise Band of Brothers is not entirely historically accurate
The HBO miniseries Band of Brothers became one of the most revered historical fiction shows due to its commitment to historical accuracy. The series was largely based on noted war historian Stephen Ambrose’s non-fiction novel of the same name, which consisted of in-depth testimonies and interviews with real Easy Company members.
However, several fans have pointed out inaccuracies in the series despite its commitment to reality. Many procedures, uniforms, weaponry, and processes were not reportedly entirely accurate. The 101st Airborne Division was just one part of the Easy Company and was not more noteworthy than any other division in the war.
Many characters were reportedly changed or combined for dramatic effect. One of the biggest inaccuracies is that of Private Albert Blithe’s death in the series, which surprisingly did not happen until 1968. His fellow soldiers reportedly lost contact with him and thought he died. Some of the inaccuracies even stem from the veterans and the book itself (via Reddit),
Other inaccuracies include the portrayal of some of the members, including Lieutenant Norman Dike and Lewis Nixon.
Tom Hanks disregarded the real Major Winters’ concern for historical accuracy
Everyone knows that Hollywood is where dreams come to life and is a vessel for all sorts of imagination. However, some projects require a realistic treatment and Band of Brothers was one such show that prided itself on being more accurate than others in the genre. However, the real Major Winters was reportedly concerned with some of the creative freedom.
When asked by producer Tom Hanks if he liked the show, Winters reportedly wondered if they could have aimed for 80% accuracy instead of complete authenticity. Hanks reportedly responded (via ScreenRant),
Look, Major, this is Hollywood. At the end of the day, we will be hailed as geniuses if we get this 12 percent right. We are going to shoot for 17 percent.
While 12% is more in tune with what the show ultimately became, Hanks’ low bar and author Stephen Ambrose’s lack of more thorough research could be blamed for the show’s inaccuracies.
Band of Brothers is available to stream on Max.
This post belongs to FandomWire and first appeared on FandomWire
