The Valley of Elah

"They are with Saul and all the men of Israel in the Valley of Elah, fighting against the Philistines."
1 Sam 17:19

See this film.

The next time you are at the video store, rent it.

Over the years we have seen more and more 'American Flag' moments in Hollywood films, most of which are fairly cringe inducing. After seeing this film, I think I get what those other films are trying to achieve.

This is a film which is not afraid to be patriotic, but at the same time to call out that America is in trouble.

America is in trouble and someone needs to stand up against Goliath.

Someone needs to have the courage to stand up to Goliath.

But who is Goliath?

Well you will need to see the film.

There are big issues at hand here. War. The war in Iraq. Father/Son relations. Family crisis. And the effect all the listed can have on individuals and a country.

The performances are top notch. Tommy Lee Jones excelling. But the smaller support roles makes this film so good. Josh Brolin and James Franco shinning.

Paul Haggis is not afraid to deal with the serious issues of his time. Million Dollar Baby and Crash proving this point. He is a fine writer, producer and director.

I have high praise for this film, mainly because of its subject matter and the point it leaves us with.

However, it loses a 'star' due to what feels like a rushed ending. And the 'climax' is subdued (mainly to allow the director to get his point across at the end of the film), but this may leave you feeling a little short changed.

4/5

Jim