Fans of war dramas are in for a treat as  Netflix has unveiled a first look at an upcoming “wartime epic” based on a true story. Currently filming in Australia, the cast and crew from the film posed for photos on the battlefield in Queensland.

Starring Nicholas Galitzine, Bill Skarsgård, Ray Nicholson and Tom Francis, the film is based on the true story of four top American college football stars who left fame behind to enlist in the Marines following the attack on Pearl Harbor.

Netflix teased: “As they prepare for the brutal invasion of Okinawa, they participate in a legendary game featuring some of the greatest players in history — a game that, for many, will be their last.”

The film in question is The Mosquito Bowl, and a number of new cast members have also been announced, with American sports analyst and host Pat McAfee joining as a US Marine drill instructor. Brent Comer and Dominic Bogart have also been cast in undisclosed roles.

Filming took place in 2025, with Berg previously saying: “I’m thrilled to be in Queensland filming The Mosquito Bowl with some of the best crews in the world. The landscapes here are cinematic gold — perfect for bringing this story to life.

“So far, I’ve crossed paths with two kangaroos and a couple of pythons, and I’m seriously considering casting them! Huge thanks to Screen Queensland for their incredible support in helping make this production possible.”

The upcoming film is a feature adaptation of Buzz Bissinger’s New York Times bestseller The Mosquito Bowl: A Game of Life and Death in World War II. Berg’s previous work includes the hit limited series American Primeval, which spent four weeks on the Netflix Global Top 10 TV chart and racked up 35.1 million views.

The Mosquito Bowl refers to a football game played on Christmas Eve in 1944 between two regiments of Marines at Guadalcanal during the Second World War. The game was organised with 65 players, including sporting legends John McLaughry and Tony Butkovich.

While the game ended with a scoreless tie, it was etched into history as a defining moment of courage and duty. Many people had gathered around the makeshift football field to watch the game and get a taste of home.

The Inquirer explained how Bissinger’s book recalls the inspirational story, reporting: “While plenty of other able-bodied men didn’t let the war disrupt their lives, these men postponed offers to play in the NFL, begin careers, marry or start their own families to join the fight.

“In exploring the hearts and souls of those who risked everything for their country, Bissinger’s book defines some of the qualities that make America great — then, now and forever. And such greatness characterizes exceptional men and women around the world.

“He also showcases the horrors of war and the blunders that cost lives on the battlefield.” News of the Netflix adaptation was first announced in the summer of 2025 and fans of Berg’s previous work were excited to follow his next venture.

Fans took to X, formerly Twitter, to share their thoughts, with LegendDboy commenting: “From the field of the frontlines… this is gonna be emotional.” Michael Riley shared: “Amazing book! I’m sure the movie will be excellent as well. Peter Berg is so talented.”

Nolan Carter added: “That cast and story already have me hooked.” Ali Heib concluded: “Wow, sounds like a wild mix of football and war. Can’t wait to see how they pull off that epic game story!”

The Mosquito Bowl will air on Netflix

**For the latest showbiz, TV, movie and streaming news, go to the new Everything Gossip website**