Double Feature: Lone Survivor & Shadow Recruit

Lone Survivor

Image property of Weed Road Pictures

Lone Survivor is the true story of four Navy Seals sent on a mission in Afghanistan.  While the Jan. 10 release was one of the most emotionally powerful narratives within recent years, the film format may not have been as suitable as the 2009 book, which may have been able to provide a more thorough description of the portrayed events.  What is even more disappointing is that the film opened with a spoiler of who the "lone survivor" ends up being, which removes some of the potential for a more compelling story.

All that being said, this film is very commendable based on the very realistic action and raw acting of the cast, which includes Mark Wahlberg, Taylor Kitsch, Emile Hirsch and Ben Foster.  While there were no intense special effects, the film's intensity and use of gunfire created a mood that was honestly terrifying. 

As the film progresses the cast's talents really begin to shine once the four Seals are discovered by a few Afghan civilians and the crew needs to decide how to deal with their suddenely compromised operation. While some dramatic moments were lacking, the compassion found in unexpected places certainly made up for it.

What makes this film unique and worth watching is the fact that it told more than one story about Afghanistan (in the sense that it portrayed non-Taliban citizens).

Is this film worthy of an Oscar? Probably not.  Is it a great narrative that is worth experiencing? Yes, absolutely.

Grade: B+


Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit

Property of Paramount Pictures

This Jan. 17 release tells the story of Jack Ryan, often referred to as the American James Bond.  In this film Ryan, a creation of espionage-plot writer Tom Clancy, is a data analyst and CIA field agent sent on his first assignment in Russia.

In typical international-spy-movie fashion, the plot really picks up after it becomes clear that there is an issue that needs some extreme fixing.  In this case it is that members of the Russian government have come up with a plot to tank the value of the American dollar and of course Ryan is assigned to the case and begins trying to find a way to save the day.  


While the film doesn't quite measure up to recent spy films, from MI 4: Ghost Protocol to Skyfall, it certainly provides a decent story with a good amount of quality action sequences, villainous plots and heroic gestures. 


The casting for this film was satisfying.  With Ryan portrayed by Chris Pine, his fiance played by Keira Knightley and his mentor played by Kevin Costner, this movie has a solid cast, especially considering the fact that Kenneth Branagh took on the role of the villain.

Something interesting about the acting in this film is that Knightly's character, Cathy, is an American.  While the actress did a great job in the role, it would have been a more entertaining performance if she were speaking in her typical English accent for which she is known and loved.


As a whole, Shadow Recruit is an entertaining but somewhat unoriginal movie. 

Grade: B-