12 Strong (2018) (4K Ultra HD Review)
Director: Nicolai Fuglsig
Starring: Chris Hemsworth, Michael Shannon, Michael Peña
RATED: UR/REGION 0/2:40/2160p/NUMBER OF DISCS 1
AVAILABLE FROM Warner Bros.
“12 Strong” promises to be a thrilling and action-packed tale of patriotism and heroism, but what it delivers is a dull and uninspired war drama that fails to ignite the screen. Director Nicolai Fuglsig’s attempt to bring the true story of the 12th Cavalry Regiment’s first mission in Afghanistan is marred by poor pacing, weak character development, and a tone that’s more plodding than pulse-pounding. The film’s biggest problem is its lack of focus. The story jumps around like a wild mustang, struggling to find a clear narrative thread. The plot is bogged down by lengthy exposition and tedious military jargon that feels like an endless stream of information overload. The pacing is sluggish, with long stretches of nothingness punctuated by brief moments of explosive action. When the action does arrive, it’s often confusing and poorly choreographed, making it difficult to become invested in the battles.
The cast is equally underwhelming. Chris Hemsworth’s John “Hollywood” Moore, the leader of the 12th Cavalry Regiment, is a blank slate of a character. He’s got all the charisma of a wet sock and no discernible motivation or depth. His supporting cast fares no better, with characters like Michael Shannon’s Hal Spencer and William Fichtner’s Joe Clemons feeling like cardboard cutouts. The score by Lorne Balfe is equally forgettable, providing a generic and uninspired soundtrack that fails to elevate the film’s emotional stakes. The cinematography is similarly unremarkable, with dull colors and uninspired composition making it feel like a TV movie.
The real shame is that “12 Strong” has a fascinating true story to tell. The real-life events are steeped in drama and heroism, but the film’s poor execution means that these elements are lost in the noise. The movie’s attempts to tug at the heartstrings fall flat, with a lack of emotional resonance that makes it hard to care about the characters’ fates. Ultimately, “12 Strong” feels like a wasted opportunity. With its dull plot, weak characters, and uninspired direction, it’s a war drama that fails to leave an impact. If you’re looking for a compelling and emotional exploration of war and its consequences, you’ll have to look elsewhere.
Extras
- 12 Strong: The Making of an Impossible Mission
- Monumental Effort: Building America’s Response Monument
