I can judge "Lone Survivor" on the same merits as other films but I don't want to. Its purpose dictates a different kind of analysis, because this isn't entertainment. This is meant to honor the memory of men who died protecting their brother in arms. Marcus Lutrell (portrayed by Mark Wahlberg) is a Navy Seal stationed in Afghanistan, sent as part of a four-man team on a recon mission to track the movements of a Taliban executive. When the operation is compromised, he and his men have to fight their way through the mountains, protecting each other at all costs to get home safe.
It's a shame audiences have been desensitized by "based on a true story", trained to regard the phrase as just advertising fodder. However, the marketing for "Lone Survivor" places its emphasis on showing the real Marcus Lutrell, whose book recounting the incident is the basis for the movie. Through viewing Lutrell's raw interviews and detailed consultation, I got the message beforehand this project was approached with passion, not profit.
"Lone Survivor" glamourizes next to nothing. The bulletstorm mentality plaguing other war films is replaced with silent tension. Any sound is scrutinized, every movement calculated, because lives are on the line. When the action does break, the soldiers range from precise and cool under pressure to frantic and desperate. Every bullet carries weight; its impact is felt through skin and bone. Explosions leave ears ringing, the vibrations pounding through a man's chest. The filmmakers show restraint, but when necessary, do not shy away from the reality of a wound, no matter how graphic.
It would be easy for the filmmakers to make these men caricatured, larger than life macho action stars. Marcus Lutrell isn't the typical hero. Through conversations with the other soldiers, he is presented as a loyal, quiet man one can bounce ideas and emotions off of. He doesn't bring attention to himself, and were it not for the marketing, I wouldn't have guessed him to be the focus. Wahlberg is understated and natural, letting the gravity of the danger dictate his responses and reactions.
The other soldiers are fun to be with. From the blunt yet sweet Matthew Axelson (Ben Foster) to the hotheaded Shane Patton (Alexander Ludwig) and the decisive Michael Murphy (Taylor Kitsch), these men interact like brothers, making fun of each other and giving advice. Their trust in each other isn't questioned for a second; I care about these characters, my chest tightened when they were hurt. The camaraderie is the strength and focus here, and it's pulled off with aplomb.
"Lone Survivor" drained me emotionally. It's unafraid to show the ugliness of war, but in that despair, I came out better for it. The bravery these men display to protect each other inspire me, test my resolve and loyalty for those I love. Before the end credits, we see about ten minutes of photos of the real-life team; it's obvious this was made out of love for their sacrifice. Marcus Lutrell had a story to tell and he honors his men in the most excellent way. "Lone Survivor" is a powerful must-see. Thank you for reading, I'm the Man Without A Plan, signing off.
"Lone Survivor" trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VuIINk0IftU&feature=youtube_gdata_player
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