Ridley does it again...

Rating: Null/10 (30 January 2002)

Since a previous reviewer did a little recap on the background of the true events of the movie, I'll comment more about the movie itself... I just saw this movie tonight and I'd have to give this movie 3 and a half stars. The reason it doesn't get a full four is because while it is excellent, something just felt...missing. Was it too grand or not epic enough for me? I'm not sure. I know that, in my opinion, it isn't worth any Best Picture nominations. It's not even worth any actor nominations, although they are all very, very good. If anything, I think it should get a nod for direction and sound... The best thing I liked about the movie is that I forgot I was watching a movie. It sucked me right in (once the obligatory exposition in the beginning was done) and never let me go. Now don't get me wrong, it's not one pulse pounding minute after another--but it is action packed-- but it's simply engrossing. I agree with another reviewer that it is similar in its graphic-ness to "Private Ryan" in that you feel like you are in the trenches with these guys. Also, here's a kicker: half the cast is English or Australian, so it's funny to hear McGregor, Bloom, Isaacs, etc. talking like Bob from Arkansas. To sum up: Well worth your 8, 9, 10 bucks. It made me want to research more about the Somalian conflict and I don't doubt that was a goal of the filmmakers. And you will walk out of the movie respecting the heck out of our military men and women. The movie couldn't have been timed better if they tried. Don't listen to the hype, just see this excellent movie.