The Hurt Locker [DVD] [2008]

'The Hurt Locker' is as good a war film as I have seen since 'Apocalypse Now', with which there are some similarities. Don't expect the operatics of the Coppola film or the psychedelic tone though. The use of flame imagery, particularly in a scene towards the end, and the circular structure of the film in (perpetual) tours of duty, emphasize the sense of the soldiers' journey through increasing circles of hell. 'Apocalypse Now' was more poetic and this film resolutely prosaic (that is not a criticism), but both films are thoughtful, intelligent and deal with the inner mind of the soldiers as they move towards a greater understanding of themselves. Some critics have said this is a 'non-political' film. I don't agree, but it is not overtly political. Nonetheless, questions about the reasons for the soldiers being in Iraq, the class and racial backgrounds of the soldiers and the relationship between Iraqis and American troops are an important part of the film. Kathryn Bigelow's direction is terrific. She makes the film tense, but (somebody tell Tarantino) keeps it grounded in reality. She keeps it moving, but doesn't resort to the flash, fast-cutting, impatient film-making of, say Tony or Ridley Scott. And Jeremy Renner, as Sgt William James, the detonator of the IED's (Improvised Explosive Devices) - the man who gets to wear 'the suit' - is outstanding. I thought of a young Brando. Most of all, next time I read or see on the news about explosions in Iraq or Afghanistan or anywhere else I will think a bit more about the soldiers out there instead of letting it all wash over me as I have done in the past. Outstanding film. See it!

I wasn't expecting too much from this film when I watched it. I'm not usually into war films, but having enjoyed QT's Inglorious Basterds (which is totally different to this btw) I gave it a crack. It's directed by Kathryn Bigelow who made Point Break so I was expecting a no brainer shoot em up. Far from it, this is a fantastic incredibly tense film about a group of bomb disposal experts in Iraq. It focusses well on the relationships and bonding between the soldiers and also the differing mentalities of the lead players. Jeremy Renner is exceptional as Sgt William James and carries much of the story. It's an excellent portrayal of a man who's an adrenaline junkie, loyal to his friends but at times reckless. There are also some great cameos from a few big name actors. Seeing one of the characters back in the US shopping for cornflakes with his wife subtly puts across the reality of the craziness of war and what it does to a man. Worth watching even if you're not normally into war films.

This intelligent film showed one the exceptional bravery which is required in this awful warfare.Never for a moment did it lapse into the Gung Ho type of filming seen usually in films of conflict. The tension shown between the Iraqui citizens and serving soldiers was particularly relevant and provided utterly compelling viewing. No wonder at the Oscar successes.

I'm only writing this because of the shock i had in seeing its poor overall score on amazon. Having seen almost all films in the cinema of worth over the past year (going to the cinema on average twice a week without fail) i found this film to be the best one i saw last year. Its a triumph, and i have noticed that those who are putting it down are those who merely enjoy mainstream films, to which Hurt Locker's audience expanded ever so slightly. If your opinion is at all mature, then i recommend Hurt Locker.

I'm surprised by the mixed reviews and opinions on here for what I thought was one of the best films I've seen in a while. I'm also surprised that whenever I read reviews or talk about this film with people, everyone states how the suspense was killing them - but all seem to say it was at different bits. For me, it was the sniper scene which I found masterful - for one of the viewers below, the pad-lock scene. It seems that whatever part of this film does it for you, at some point it will. You can't deny the fact that at some point it'll have you on the edge of your seat and you can't deny that this film has some of the tensest moments ever committed to celluloid! It really is edge of your seat stuff - I was sitting up engrossed - a puppet on the filmmakers string. The director really has done a sterling job and deserves her award for doing so. She has also managed to capture some really rather beautiful scenes - turning bomb blasts (something horrible) into things of staggering beauty. The film itself is really just a series of set pieces and my one complaint would be that perhaps, it's one set piece to long as the film did seem to last along time - but that's part of the beauty of it I guess. There is no rushing this film, just as there is no rushing disarming a live bomb - and you're with these soldiers every step of the way. You're right there with them, on tenter hooks, snip by snip, wire by wire, as they do their job. Superb stuff. I saw one reviewer on here state that there was no sense of place? A comment I find strange. The scenery and sets are excellent and I for one felt as if I was in standing slap bang in the centre of Iraq the whole time - and that's what this film does so well. It puts you in the heart of the action - as I said before - you're right there! RIGHT THERE!! Standing by the soldiers as they dismantle bombs. Running for cover when they go off!!! You're screaming at the TV contact left! contact left! as they come under fire... after watching it felt physically drained - I can't wait to watch it again but have been waiting for my 50'' plasma and surround system to arrive - I get one in about 2 months and it'll be worth the wait... I can't imagine the state I'll be in after watching it on a loud system and huge screen - I'll probably need to see a doctor as my nerves will be shredded!!! This film is simply awesome - ignore the poor reviews - it didn't win best picture for nothing! I can't say there are many films I wait to watch the credits for but this one I did.

For me, the test of a good film is whether it lingers in your consciousness a few days after you've seen it. In the Hurt Locker's case the answer is a resounding yes. It is an exceptional film that has much to offer. A lot of people have criticised it for not fitting in with their preconceptions about what a war movie or even an Oscar-winner should be like. Ignore them. The Hurt Locker is a mature and intelligent film that works on several levels. First of all, soldiers I know who have served in Iraq and who have seen this movie, all say that it is an alarmingly realistic portrayal of what it was actually like to be there. it certainly felt real to me. In that respect, the movie is an historical record of the conflict as much as a piece of entertainment. Secondly, the film presents its characters 'warts and all'. So you see them not so much as heroes, although they clearly are, but as human beings. This very cleverly makes the film seem like a documentary or reality TV show rather than your average action drama. Of course, when the film's main protagonists are shown as flawed individuals, they are less attractive and less easy to identify with, but for me they are no less interesting and only make the film more compelling and believable. Thirdly, the film is well-scripted with a directional style that turns you into a fly on the wall of a Bagdad Street. The combined effect of these things transports you to a war zone for a couple of hours and, boy oh boy, you'll be glad to return home safe and in one piece afterwards. Kathryn Bigelow, the movie's director, leaves you in no doubt that being a bomb disposal expert is one of the most dangerous and unrewarding roles that any soldier has to perform. The film hows how they do what they do by immersing you in their world. It doesn't always make for comfortable viewing, but I felt glad someone had tried to give these people the recognition they deserve. For all these reasons and more, the Hurt Locker is a challenging film to watch. I am glad I saw it, because when we look back on the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan in years to come and remember what it was like, we'll have some idea of what the human cost was and whether the ends truly justified the means. All in all the Hurt Locker is a magnificent and well-observed story of our time. The actors are mostly unknowns, but all turn-in excellent performances, especially Jeremy Renner. Ultimately, this film is not the escape that Avatar was. It is quite the opposite, a terrifying descent into a reality we'd all rather avoid. But it is no less worthwhile for that and is a film that will be remembered long after so much other Hollywood popcorn has been forgotten.

This gritty depiction of modern warfare in the present day Middle East immerses the viewer from the outset into daily military life, where combat frequently takes the form of suicide bombs and IEDs, just as much as conventional fighting. As the movie progresses, different typical scenarios are encountered by allied forces, and it quickly becomes clear that instant death may occur without warning at any moment. Excellent cinematography from Barry Ackroyd (Green Zone; United 93) helps give this movie true action, depth and impact, as well as a palpable sense of realism. Strong performances from all of the actors ensure that the events depicted are entirely believable, and there is a certain raw documentary style throughout the proceedings. The central role of Jeremy Renner (S.W.A.T.; North Country) as Staff Sergeant William James is a particularly outstanding performance, rightfully earning him a 2009 Academy nomination for leading actor. Marco Beltrami and Buck Sanders were also Academy nominated, for The Hurt Locker's music score. The Hurt Locker is directed by Kathryn Bigelow (Mission Zero; K-19), and it is the 2009 Academy winner of best picture.

This film is brilliant. The acting is top notch, the locations are excellent and it is very hard to point out flaws. The film has little actual plot but it doesn't need it and if you watch it you will understand. You are held in suspense for the duration of the film and excitement throbs throughout. In short, if you haven't watched it then you really, really need to.

this is the first american war film that actually feels realistic, not your typical gung ho the americans save the day kind of film. it shows you what its like out there, what they go through and how they cope with going back to civilian life as close to reality as possible, it deserved the awards it won.

Firstly I just want to say that this film is (excuse the pun) mind blowing! It's one of the best modern day war films I've ever seen. Yes it's not all constant action. But neither is being in Iraq! I suppose this is more of a 'documentary film', but that's what makes it so fascinating and gripping. I've watched the DVD 4 or 5 times now, and every time I just can't keep my eyes from it and get so involved. Although watching it on a big screen is great, I find it best if it's on my 19" computer monitor with my surround sound speakers on, it's almost like you're there, like you're the 4th man riding along with Sergeant James, Sergeant Sanborn and Specialist Eldridge! The Hurt Locker was made to be as realistic as possible. If you don't like realism, go and watch some fake glamourised film about war or play on call of duty. This film is 10 out of 10 and 5 stars every single time (and trust me, you can count on one hand the amount of times I've said that about a film!). That's why it's won so many awards. Because it's perfect.