Film Review – 12 Strong (2018)

Firstly I cannot thank the armed forces deployed overseas or at home enough for what they do. Based on a true story derived from a book ‘Horse Soldiers‘ from author Doug Stanton following special forces soldiers on the ground in Afghanistan just after the 9/11 incident.

Debating and arguing what to do next there is way too much internal group challenges being led up by Captain Mitch Nelson (Chris Hemsworth) when there is a need for drama he gives it to you, when there is a need for quietness he gives it to you, however striking explosive action is what 12 Strong, is basically relying on.

No holds barred bullet and bomb symphonies are loud, dynamic and most impressive thanks to the stalwart and one of an abundance of producers here Jerry Bruckheimer. however, as this is the focus it is draining to the brain plus damaging to ears in pulsating digital sound.

Michael Shannon (Shape of Water, Vanilla Sky) is wasted in an insignificant manner, while Michael Pena fares better, while it was nice to see Mrs. Hemsworth, Elsa Pataky (Furious 6, Snakes on a Plane) within minor affectionate emotional scenes together with her Australian husband.

Hemsworth is solid, unintentional charm even sneaks out during the extended focus on the soldiers attempting to ride horses at short notice, most with no prior experience.

Full on as you would expect, desert situations concerning modern warfare isn’t pretty. 12 Strong is grating only worth watching if you’re into war movie tropes.

Shane A.Bassett | Movie Analyst

History, Drama | USA, 2018 | 12| 28th May 2018 (UK BD/DVD)| EFD Films |Dir.Nicolai Fuglsig| Chris Hemsworth, Michael Pena, Michael Shannon, Elsa Pataky, Lauren Myers, Trevante Rhodes