Tense, entertaining and occasionally brilliant.

Rating: 7/10 (25 October 2014)

Following a tank crew on their trek through Germany, this WWII saga is a mixed bag; it has a list of flaws as long as a small novel, however it also has energy, intensity and acting prowess to burn. David Ayer (End of Watch, Street Kings, Sabotage) has always been a take-it-or- leave-it type of filmmaker that has split critical opinion, and his latest won't change minds on either side of the Ayer-fence. A mishmash tone that swings from earnest war drama to Hollywood action flick and a propensity to linger too long on certain scenes are the primary faults that stop this motion picture from soaring. Yet somehow it still comes out the other end as a largely entertaining and gripping film with glimpses of brilliance. There are two tank battle set pieces that are utterly enthralling and showcase Ayer's obvious skill for action, whilst Roman Vasyanov's magnificent cinematography – all gloomy clouds and dirty, muddy realism – brings a sombre atmosphere that lends the film an extra layer of gravitas. Ultimately, though, this a showcase for the ensemble cast to shine. Brad Pitt is commanding as the gruff and uncompromising tank leader who just wants to keep his men alive; Shia LeBeouf defies the Shia-haters with an impressive turn as Pitt's emotional right-hand man; Logan Lerman delivers the finest performance of his burgeoning career as the inexperienced newby; and Michael Pena and Jon Bernthal round out the gang solidly. Despite not being the Saving Private Ryan of 2014 it could have been, Fury remains a tense and occasionally fascinating cinematic experience.