War Machine Review: A Gritty, Realistic Action Movie with a Stoic Hero
In the world of action movies, it's easy to get lost in the spectacle and forget the importance of a well-crafted story. War Machine, starring Alan Ritchson, is a breath of fresh air in this regard. It's a movie that understands the value of a good narrative, even when it's wrapped in explosive action sequences.
Personally, I think War Machine is a refreshing take on the action genre. It's a movie that doesn't try to reinvent the wheel, but instead builds upon the foundations laid by classic action films like Predator. What makes this particularly fascinating is how it manages to blend the familiar with the new, creating a unique and engaging experience.
The story follows a veteran soldier, referred to only as 81, played by Alan Ritchson. 81 is a man who has made a promise to his brother, and he's determined to keep it. The first forty minutes of the movie show 81 enduring the rigorous challenges of the Army Ranger Assessment and Selection Program (RASP). It's a grueling process, and Ritchson's portrayal of 81 is both compelling and relatable.
One thing that immediately stands out is the attention to detail in the training sequences. The movie doesn't shy away from showing the physical and mental toll of RASP, making it feel authentic and intense. This is a far cry from the over-the-top, muscled heroes of the eighties and nineties, and it's a welcome change.
When the action intensifies, War Machine delivers in spades. The final field exercise is a thrilling showcase of Ritchson's 81 in action. The mech, a heavily weaponized robot, adds a new layer of danger and excitement to the proceedings. What many people don't realize is that the movie manages to keep the CGI minimal, relying on practical stuntwork and location shooting to create a realistic feel.
Director Patrick Hughes, who has worked in comedy and action, brings a sense of grit and realism to the film. His familiarity with retro action is evident in the way he handles the story and the action sequences. Hughes and co-writer James Beaufort, a former Power Rangers actor, have crafted a lean action vehicle that feels like a big-budget studio project.
What this really suggests is that War Machine is a well-executed action movie. It's a movie that understands the importance of a strong lead, and Ritchson's 81 is a perfect fit for the role. His stoic hero is more visibly mortal than the action heroes of the past, but he never surrenders in the face of the enemy. This is a hero who bleeds, gets injured, and relies on intellect and instinct to survive.
In my opinion, War Machine is a fun and action-packed throwback that is one of the better action movies in recent memory. It's a movie that exemplifies how to do action right, without trying to mess with the familiar dynamics we've come to expect. The ending moments, in particular, serve as a nice conclusion with some open-ended potential.
If you're looking for a movie that combines explosive action with a compelling story, War Machine is a must-watch. It's a movie that will keep you on the edge of your seat, and it's a refreshing change from the typical superhero fare. So, grab some popcorn, settle in, and enjoy the ride. War Machine is now streaming on Netflix, and it's definitely worth a watch.
