I had no idea what to expect from Ang Lee’s latest movie.
Any apprehension I felt towards it vanished from the very first scene, which was a gripping, heart wrenching and realistic view of the Iraq war, which sets the pace for a brilliant movie.
Billy Lyn’s Long Halftime Walk stars newcomer Joe Alwyn as Billy, a specialist in Bravo Squad an elite force of soldiers who, together with the rest of the squad is being honoured for their duty at the Super Bowl.
Ang Lee masterfully takes the audience on a journey through the harrowing realities of war and the all American perception of it back home.
It is a rollercoaster ride of emotions viewed through the eyes of the soldiers in Bravo Squad, including Garret Hedlund who gives a stellar performance as Dime, the squad’s leader who is very protective of his men.
The men flinch as the fireworks explode at the Super Bowl celebrations as they are reminded of the bombs in Iraq, reflecting Billy’s own struggle with PTSD. The film also addresses the arrogance of numerous Americans who throw around phrases such as ‘what was it like to kill someone,’ without realising the true horrors of battle.
The heart of the story is undoubtedly the camaraderie between the members of Bravo Squad; beneath the joking around and never ending quest of getting the girl they share a bond with that only soldiers can understand.
Ang Lee perfectly captures the fear, the elation at simple things such as eating a good meal or talking to a pretty girl and the ignorance of civilians who hero worship soldiers yet disregard their humanity and fears.
Also starring Steve Martin, Kirsten Stewart and Vin Diesel, Billy Lyn’s Long Halftime Walk is a must see.
Sony Pictures
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Rated: M
In cinemas now
