Intense

Rating: 8/10 (30 January 2002)

I had mixed feelings going into this one. On one hand, it's directed by Ridley Scott; who has done his fair share of great movies. On the other hand, Jerry Bruckheimer's name is attached to it; who seems to be involved in big, pretty movies, with very little substance in them, *cough* Pearl Harbor *cough*. I hoped Ridley's artistry would overcome Bruckheimer's `presence'. So, did it? For the most part yes.
The film is beautifully shot. After the initial set-up, which I believe makes up the first 30 minutes or so, the troops get sent in and that's when the film takes off......and doesn't stop for 2 hours. Man, this movie is intense. Think: the opening scene of Saving Private Ryan, only six times longer. You get a real sense of being caught in the cross fire. My only major complaint are some obvious CG effects, such as the dust being kicked up by helicopter propellers, but overall they don't distract too much from the experience and most people might not even notice.
Some might not enjoy the graphic nature of the movie. It doesn't turn away from the violence, in fact, it zooms in on it and keeps it there, forcing you to watch. It's a very powerful picture which I don't hesitate recommending. Try catching it in theaters to get the full effect.