Lone Survivor

                                                                           

             Some of the most epic films over time have dealt with the subject of war. Not just the destruction that war brings, but the triumph and tragedy of the men involved. Greatness is often bestowed onto men who claim victory, and we honor those who have fallen. In the early days of film, it wasn't about realism as much as it was about the characters that were on the front lines. Today it seems to be about trying to immerse you into the world of war, so you can witness firsthand what it is like. “Saving Private Ryan” was one of the first films to do this and many have followed since then, but none will make you feel like this film does.

          “Lone Survivor” is about a failed 2005 mission “Operation Red Wings” to kill or capture notorious Taliban leader Ahmad Shahd. A Navy Seal team consisting of four men was sent to scout ahead for the mission. The team was lead by Mike Murphy (Taylor Kitsch) and also included Marcus Luttrell (Mark Wahlberg), Danny Dietz (Emile Hirsch), and Matt Axelson (Ben Foster). What was supposed to be a mission against a small group of men, turned into a battle with a small army, and a war of survival.

        When a filmmaker makes something out of a passion instead of a paycheck, it really shows in the final product. Director Peter Berg (The Kingdom), who also wrote the screenplay, made this film for the soldiers who did not come home from that mission. And not just for them, but for all those who have fought for our country. From the opening credits of footage of boot camp, to the end where the actors played second fiddle to the real stars of the film. You will be in awe as you witness the intensity and brutality of what these men went through, and what they fought for.
        I will be the first to admit, I did not have high expectations for this movie after I saw the first trailer. But as I sat there and watched the story unfold, I could not take my eyes off the screen and afterwards I could not think of anything but the courage each one of those men displayed. “Lone Survivor” is one of those movies that does not shy away from the truth and does not candy coat what really happened in those hills.  Like any movie they take creative license with the material, but it doesn't take away the fact that this is a very good movie, and one that you will want to encourage your friends and family to see. My hat goes off to Mr. Berg, and everyone in involved in the making of this film, they have made a fantastic movie, and one that not only deserves to be seen, but deserves to be remembered.

Brian Taylor