It’s the in-yer-face approach to war movies, using hand-held shaky-cam to put you in the heart of the action as interchangeable American soldiers swap sweary banter while fighting off the Taliban in Afghanistan. All this, together with a lack of plot, is alienating. If it stopped after one hour it would be a one-star film, but the second hour of battle ramps up viewer engagement. Director Rod Lurie, with the aid of drones, comes up with some stunning five-star single-shot camera work and we become more involved in the plight of the outnumbered soldiers.
It’s based on a true story of the Americans’ most decorated battle of the war and the real soldiers involved testify to the film’s authenticity. This makes it hard to find fault but, judged purely as a film, its whole is less then some of its parts and it won’t be for everyone. To prove you don’t need shaky-cam to capture visceral action, see the similar but superior 12 Strong.
This is a quality war film.
It avoids taking sides and the professional soldiers act like professional soldiers.
The banter is entertaining and while all the guys look the same, it makes sure to build several characters. One going from someone you wouldnt trust with your cat to a hero.
My Girlfriend pointed out it was a bit miserable. Which it is, like blackhawk down things just keep getting worse.
But its well written, the action is sound and importantly, like blackhawk down it goes to show how stupid ideas can cause such tragic loss of life. But on the flip side it brings out the best in men as they rise to the threat.
If you like your war films realistic and gritty then this is well worth a watch.
And yes my title is a shared line in the film. Its brilliantly delivered.
great film, if youl like war films similar to black hawk down then im sure youl like this. the second half is pretty much none stop action. on edge of your seat action. the first is getting to know people and how the situation was there.
acting was good and decent budget.