Welcome return to form

Rating: Null/10 (8 January 2002)

Although not a huge fan of war films, I thoroughly enjoyed this welcome return to form from Joel Schumacher.
The photography and performances are excellent throughout and Colin Farrell is superb as the reluctant trainee Bozz. In fact, it seems difficult to believe he isn't a major star already. The running time is spot-on as well (don't you hate films that drag on needlessly?). The hidden star of Tigerland is the Vietnam war itself which, although never shown, overshadows events with a brooding presence you can actually feel.
The film isn't without it's flaws (some of the characters and dialogue are stereotypical boot-camp stuff) but the most pleasing thing is that Joel is obviously prepared to take risks and not attempt an easy route back into favour. 8/10