Outstanding film to which there is no equal.

Rating: 10/10 (18 January 2002)

I give this film 10 out of 10, something I never do. This film is simply an incredible experience. Ridley Scott has truly captured the art of depicting modern war on film. The performers were superb, standing out on occasion, but never becoming individuals. They remained part of the team. And that is what a group of soldiers in battle is, not a collection of individuals, but a team where selfless courage produces heroism.
I've read several reviews stating that the characters need more development and don't stand out. Let me say that if the characters stood out more, then you wouldn't be looking at the real army. If you want characters that really stand out, then watch a fictional depiction of war. Men don't stand out on the battlefield. It is only after, in retrospect, that heroes can be identified. And to those claiming that they don't get to know the men well enough to care about them: These are real United States Army Rangers, Delta Force, and Night Stalkers out there. You should care about them simply because their our men who fight and die for the freedom we enjoy.
If there is a flaw to this film, I think that it is perhaps shorter than it should be. The reason I say that is because the night in the city seems to go incredibly fast. Having read the book twice, I think this is perhaps the more critical part of the story. However, the film does a very good job of showing how desperate the 15 hours in Mog were, so perhaps the length is just right.
I have to commend all involved in making this incredible film. But even more deserving of commendation are the men of the Rangers, Delta Force, and 160th SOAR.