Kandahar

What [Butler] delivers is precisely what fans are likely looking for, albeit in a package that’s more politically muddled than is necessary.

If you’ve ever found yourself wondering why Hollywood doesn’t make films like The Hunt for Red October or Air Force One anymore, you might have found your new favorite movie.

An explosive adventure that hurtles from beginning to end.

Not particularly juicy or, you know, action-packed.

As a war movie, it’s not especially insightful or gut-wrenching. As an action film, it lacks energy, momentum, and consistency. As a drama, it feels artificial and manipulative.

The sort of textureless action thriller that sounds like it’s been musically scored by a subwoofer.

We’re in Butler’s wheelhouse. He gets better in this genre as he ages, and using his native Scotland tongue is always a bonus. Say what you want about his choices after Leonidas, but he thoroughly enjoys playing these imperfect heroes.

A paint by numbers action film that struggles to find its heart.


There's nothing wrong with these sort of movies, but there's nothing particular good or memorable about them either.

Butler’s movies exist in a world mostly untouched by reality, as though the golden era of direct-to-DVD action flicks never went away. For better and for worse, “Mission Kandahar” fits that mold.