“Unbroken” was everything I was expecting from “American Sniper” but didn’t get.
If you know me, then you know I don’t do fluff movie reviews just to make studios and their PR firms happy; while an early screening invite is nice, it doesn’t buy my loyalty. I’ll give it to you straight, and I hope you appreciate this, even when it goes against expectations. And remember, just because it doesn’t float my boat doesn’t mean it won’t float yours.
Attention to detail is something that we learn in the military, and something Hollywood ignores more times than not, even with great military technical advisors. I’ve seen it happen in person; producers and directors sometimes just don’t listen.
Look, everybody has their issues. Mine are firing 15 rounds out of a 10-round magazine, incorrect nomenclature, corny military depictions (see my “American Sniper” review), bad military apparel or set styling, and I’m just getting started.
I’ll keep it short and simple with no spoilers. The Tomb Raider nailed it; she made a movie that was very close to the original book, a rare feat in the modern age of military action-porn films. If you read the book, you’ll be happy that the film follows closely. Angelina and the screen writer also did a great job developing the supporting characters. You couldn’t help but like and get attached to them. While some military uniform discrepancies existed, the movie was entertaining enough to let slide any criticism here (after all, it’s just a movie, right?).
If it were a holiday movie showdown, the score would be Angelina 1, Clint 0.
Unbroken delivers center mass, period. Go see it.