Reviews

The beginning is a necessary intro to the characters and situation which leads to the conflicts in the film; but the transition to the action elements of the film is awkward.

However, once there, the film is excellent and engaging. Heath's characters benefits tremendously from Djimon Hounsou's presence. It's a story of maturing and loyalty among friends more than a war story, but the battle (and aftermath) scenes are dramatic and disturbing. Without these--none of which are solicitous--the movie would fail to deliver its message about the violence and trauma faced by soldiers fighting away from home in a land and culture they don't even try to understand.

Heath Ledger is not a character actor, at least not yet, but he is interesting to watch. Wes Bentley's character is effective as are the other supporting actors. The film succeeds in focusing on the conflict without portraying anyone (other than Heath perhaps) as a faultless hero. The acting is pretty good, but it is Djimon's portrayal of a Christian mercenary who keeps the viewer interested and focused.

I would like to see the previous versions. This film, nonetheless, is very good.

In watching the movie, it was very difficult to get past Jason London's poor acting. At no point during of the movie did it ever seem like he had any grasp of his part--he never seemed regal, charismatic (a leader), or powerful. London always seemed out of place with a reasonably strong cast around him. Too bad...the movie could have been pretty good.