If one's idea of a war movie is a cast of thousands amid big action and emotion then this might struggle to appeal, but it's a sombre, anxiety-inducing and welcome addition to the genre.
Given the constraints the filmmakers have imposed on themselves, this is a remarkably gripping affair.
Doug Liman’s smart thriller pitches a US soldier into a Spielbergian contest with an Iraqi sniper who has pinned him down by a shattered wall.
Liman keeps everything tightly wound and over the course of its brief 90-minute running time Dwain Worrell’s script presents a compelling look at how conflict is repeatedly escalated by underestimating the enemy.
A great premise poorly executed.
A film that begins with the premise of a classic western or a cat-and-mouse thriller unfolds more like a worthy radio drama or a fringe theatre production.
Aaron Taylor-Johnson’s performance isn’t strong enough to save Doug Liman’s dull, stripped-back war film.
General release. Check local listings for show times.
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