Movie Review: Land of Bad (2024)

Land of Bad delivers what it promises: a gritty, high-octane action film that doesn’t aim for Oscars but serves as a solid, entertaining military thriller. Directed with a flair for tension, the film provides a fresh perspective on the war genre by exploring the critical, behind-the-scenes role of drone operators in modern combat.

The plot centers on Russell Crowe’s character, an experienced but disillusioned drone operator whose decisions determine the fate of a team of American operatives caught behind enemy lines. Crowe’s portrayal is the film’s backbone; he masterfully embodies a man weighed down by years of service, personal regrets, and the isolation of his role. His character’s stagnation in rank, attributed to his stubborn nature, adds depth and humanity to the story. Crowe’s performance elevates the material, keeping viewers invested even when the narrative strays into predictable territory.

Chris Hemsworth takes on the role of a field operative and provides a solid, if less memorable, performance. While Hemsworth delivers the necessary charisma and physicality, it is Crowe’s nuanced portrayal that anchors the film. Without his gravitas, Land of Bad might have struggled to stand out in a crowded genre.

The film offers a unique angle on military action, focusing on the ethical dilemmas and high-stakes decisions faced by drone operators. While the story is compelling, it leans heavily on “Hollywood magic” to drive the action. Some sequences push the boundaries of plausibility, but these moments are part of the genre’s charm and contribute to the adrenaline-pumping experience.

Visually, the film does an excellent job capturing the tension of the battlefield and the sterile, detached world of the drone operator. The juxtaposition of these settings underscores the emotional and psychological challenges faced by the characters. The cinematography, coupled with a pulse-pounding score, heightens the film’s intensity and immersion.

Land of Bad is not without its flaws. The supporting characters are underdeveloped, and the screenplay occasionally relies on clichés. However, the film’s pacing, action sequences, and Crowe’s standout performance compensate for these shortcomings.

Final Verdict

While Land of Bad doesn’t reinvent the wheel, it’s a compelling and entertaining action movie with a fresh perspective on military storytelling. Russell Crowe’s commanding performance makes it worth watching, especially for fans of the genre. If you can suspend disbelief for the more exaggerated scenes, you’ll find an engaging thriller that delivers plenty of excitement.

Rating: 3.5/5