Netflix’s latest action thriller, War Machine, puts a unique twist on the traditional military versus alien narrative, presenting a sci-fi scenario that feels timely, yet familiar. The film, directed by Patrick Hughes and featuring Alan Ritchson, takes place in Colorado but was filmed in Australia. Despite its gory premise, the film may serve as an accessible option for audiences looking for light entertainment amidst the ongoing global conflicts.
The story follows Ritchson’s character, a hulking soldier identified as 81, who is portrayed as a man struggling with his past while trying to prove himself within the military ranks. He is joined by a familiar face, Jai Courtney, as his brother, adding depth to the narrative through their shared aspirations of becoming army rangers. However, tragedy strikes during their deployment in Afghanistan, leaving 81 a haunted figure when we catch up with him in the present day. Despite being a shell of his former self, he is determined to conquer a brutal selection course, where the tension heightens as they realize they are being hunted by a more sinister entity.
The film’s take on extraterrestrial enemies involves machine-like aliens that evoke similarities to real-world mechanical threats, distinguishing itself from traditional sci-fi portrayals of creatures from another world. This adds an element of intrigue but can also come off as derivative to fans of genre classics such as Predator or Edge of Tomorrow. The action sequences are crafted with significant attention to visual quality, making them suitable for the big screen, even if the narrative arc feels predictable.
Ritchson’s performance showcases the physicality expected from an action hero, though it largely remains within the confines of a stereotypical role. His character’s evolution from a troubled soldier back to fighting spirit follows a conventional trajectory that lacks distinct emotional highs. While some critics may argue that the film retreats to formulaic roots with its depiction of a hyper-masculine protagonist and a primarily male cast, it does manage to incorporate familiar tropes effectively.
Overall, War Machine serves as a popcorn flick that may not break new ground but offers enough entertainment to satisfy viewers looking for straightforward action and a dose of sci-fi thrills. With its assured visuals and engaging battles, it stands as an option for a casual weekend watch, inviting audiences to switch off their brains and enjoy the ride.