Lone Survivor (2013)

Director: Peter Berg

Starring: Mark Wahlberg, Taylor Kitsch, Emile Hirsch

Marcus Luttrell and his team set out on a mission to capture or kill notorious Taliban leader Ahmad Shah, in late June 2005. Marcus and his team are left to fight for their lives in one of the most valiant efforts of modern warfare.

The film’s title along with the poster give the story away: Lone survivor – with an image of Mark Wahlberg. Talk about spoilers before you’ve even started watching the film!! So, from the very beginning I knew what was coming – it was simply a matter of when and how. The film got off to a very slow start. In fact, an hour into the film I was still waiting for something to happen. Anything!

The film is about four guys trying to survive against all odds, but – as mentioned – the title already gave it away, so there was very little suspense and no surprises. The film delivered exactly as indicated. The tagline says ‘Based on true acts of courage’. Am I missing something here? How were they being courageous? They were fighting for their lives, yes, the same anyone in their situation would have done.

I realize this is based on fact and I do sympathize with those affected by the tragedy, but as a film it made for boring viewing. The action was merely guys shooting and being shot at, and falling or jumping off cliffs – again and again.  I actually couldn’t wait for this to end. The last few minutes were action-packed, but by that time I honestly couldn’t give a damn anymore. There’s so many reasons why I did not enjoy this.

On a positive note, the directing was very good, and the photography was excellent. All the actors were good and believable, as well. You could literally sense their agony.