6.4/10
"Greater love hath no man than this, that man lay down his life for his friends"
The only time I remember watching this film, was when it first came out in 2008, and I was young, and still considering joining the military. While this film didn't impact my decision on joining. It gave me a sense of pride, as a Canadian, to see a war movie that referenced my nation.
This film is actually quite good despite the fact it focuses heavily on romantic relationships. However, the love interests aren't as cheesy as that of "Pearl Harbor" (2001), and they don't detract from the stories end goal. Sacrifice.
The acting overall is good. Paul Gross does well depicting the hardened war veteran, and Joe Dinicol equally portrays the recruit. Caroline Dhavernas and Meredith Bailey bring forth the love interests in a compelling light.
The pacing of the film is alright as at one point it begins to drag on, and my interest in the film began to wane. If they cutdown on the build-up it perhaps would've been more interesting, but for what we're given, by the time the fighting parts happen, I'm ready for the film to end.
Lastly, I was impressed with the cinematography and sound by how well it's held up ten plus years later. It still feels like war. Minus physically joining the actors in the mud and the rain it does feel like you're in the thick of it with them. Therefore bringing more energy and emotion to the forefront.
Overall, a film that I would recommend checking out at least once if you like the genre of military. Emotionally this film was impactful, but is lacklustre in its pacing.
Thank you for reading my review. Until next time.... Enjoy the show!
"Greater love hath no man than this, that man lay down his life for his friends"
The only time I remember watching this film, was when it first came out in 2008, and I was young, and still considering joining the military. While this film didn't impact my decision on joining. It gave me a sense of pride, as a Canadian, to see a war movie that referenced my nation.
This film is actually quite good despite the fact it focuses heavily on romantic relationships. However, the love interests aren't as cheesy as that of "Pearl Harbor" (2001), and they don't detract from the stories end goal. Sacrifice.
The acting overall is good. Paul Gross does well depicting the hardened war veteran, and Joe Dinicol equally portrays the recruit. Caroline Dhavernas and Meredith Bailey bring forth the love interests in a compelling light.
The pacing of the film is alright as at one point it begins to drag on, and my interest in the film began to wane. If they cutdown on the build-up it perhaps would've been more interesting, but for what we're given, by the time the fighting parts happen, I'm ready for the film to end.
Lastly, I was impressed with the cinematography and sound by how well it's held up ten plus years later. It still feels like war. Minus physically joining the actors in the mud and the rain it does feel like you're in the thick of it with them. Therefore bringing more energy and emotion to the forefront.
Overall, a film that I would recommend checking out at least once if you like the genre of military. Emotionally this film was impactful, but is lacklustre in its pacing.
Thank you for reading my review. Until next time.... Enjoy the show!