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In 1993, the United States
and the United Nations went into the country of Somalia bringing aid and
relief to the hungry masses. Soldiers found a war torn country embroiled in
a destructive civil war. The warlord Mohamed Farrah Aidid has sent his
militia out to raid the food stores to feed his troops and starve the rest
of the country.
During a U.S. mission to
capture two of Aidid's lieutenants within the city of Mogadishu, the call
comes over the radio, "Black Hawk down." The raid quickly turns into a
rescue mission. When thousands of militia attack, the battle becomes a fight
for survival lasting through the night while the American troops wait for
evacuation.
Black Hawk Down is the
most modern war drama to date depicting the longest bout of sustained
firefighting involving U.S. troops since the Vietnam War. This film is
perfection, and much thanks goes out to the Department of Defense for
embracing this film and supporting its production. Likewise the preservation
of this story is due to Ridley Scott and producer Jerry Bruckheimer for
their desire to tell a genuine story.
Most of all, this film is in
debt to its incredible ensemble cast. Each of the main characters in the
film has an integral part in Black Hawk Down. This is not the story
of one, or even several, soldiers. It is the story of 123 soldiers and their
fight for each other. Performances are outstanding from every cast member,
and many should be familiar to movie goers. Each of them look comfortable in
their characters, as we have seen them many in similar roles, creating an
instant believability.
Black Hawk Down has
one message. When in the middle of combat neither the cause or political
reasoning matters. You fight for the person beside you, all of them. This is
a great film for understanding what our troops go through. This shows the
absolute need to support our troops while in combat, regardless of the
conflict, even if you disagree.
Even more important, this
film shows how important is is to only send our boys into harm's way if
absolutely necessary. An absolutely incredible film, Black Hawk Down
is very highly recommended. Be warned, the violence is graphic and
absolutely realistic. If I am not in the conflict myself, I should at least
have some idea what these soldiers go through. Understanding...that's my
duty. |
