‘Lost Bastards’ the Movie: The True Story Of the Korean War’s Secret Mission Hitting Big Screen

Lost Bastards, the book that reveals the true story of how 28 U.S. soldiers defended “Hill 433” against a Chinese offensive during the Korean War, is hitting the big screen. It was a secret mission to test “battlefield radar” for the first time, but shortly after arriving thousands of Chinese soldiers overran their position.

Cut off from American forces, they were told to hold and defend their position at all cost. The Americans fought alongside Republic of Korea troops for survival for two weeks and only fourteen made it out alive.

The project will be produced and co-directed by Christopher HK Lee. He has produced and directed several award-winning feature and short films, including films that raise awareness of Korean history, culture and current affairs.

“South Korea has developed into a world leading economy not long after the Korean War. However, the war has not been completely over, yet it is becoming a ‘forgotten war’ among young generations,” Lee said. “Our perceptions about the issues of the war, national security, and unification are changing. It is our duty and imperative to give our voice of the history of the Korean War for the sacrifices made by our fathers as to how we wish to remember them.”

His work includes titles such as “I am Grace,” “Rescued by Fate,” “Hills of Arirang,” “Flight Buddies,” “Fading Away,” and “The Last Tear.”

“We are very excited to have Christopher H. K. Lee involved in the Lost Bastard’s project,” L. Todd Wood, author of the book and journalist said. “He brings a wealth of talent and passion that will ensure this movie honors the men of Hill 433. This story needs to be told but told well. Christopher is the man to do that.”

Wood, a graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy who flew for the 20th Special Operations Squadron, tells the untold story of the soldiers on the hill who referred to themselves as the “lost bastards” of a mission that was kept a secret for over 50 years.

It’s a story of hardship, love, and heroism during the “Forgotten” Korean War as told by the children of Dick Carpenter, U.S. Army retired (deceased), his recollections, FOIA requests and discussions with veterans.

“What these men did should never be forgotten; they deserve our everlasting respect and gratitude.” said Richard Carpenter, Executive Producer and President of Lost Bastards Productions. He is also the son of the deceased hero of the story.

The radar tested eventually gave GIs the ability to spot the enemy and direct fire on the battlefield, providing a significant advantage during the war.

“Through this film, Lost Bastards, we wish to discover and remember the emotions of their past for the future of our new generation,” Lee added.

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