Review: 'The Outpost' is an engaging tale of the horrors of war
Posted Tuesday, August 18, 2020 at 6:33 PM Central
by John Couture
War movies hold a revered spot in Hollywood's pecking order. There is no shortage of movies that recant true stories or horror and gore under the guise of patriotism. Of course, not all war movies are created equal, but when done well, there is no other genre that can solicit such an emotional reaction.
Saving Private Ryan. Full Metal Jacket. Black Hawk Down. The Outpost.
Whether it's World War II, the Vietnam War, or the skirmishes with the Taliban in Afghanistan, every war has its definitive big-screen portrayal. I'm certainly not implying that The Outpost is more significant than either Zero Dark Thirty or Lone Survivor, but it wouldn't be out of place in that conversation either.
The Outpost tells the true story of survival when an indefensible base in the valley of towering mountains comes under attack from Taliban forces. Against insurmountable odds, a ragtag group of soldiers put their training to the test and let their valor shine.
As someone who has never had to serve for my freedoms, my appreciation and awe for those that selflessly risk their lives for liberties knows no rival. Their bravery and sacrifice is unquestionable, but a civilian like myself is only able to gain insight through these glimpses reflected by Hollywood.
In talking with veterans over the years, I have been able to strain fact from Hollywood fiction. But one thing rings true when the proverbial feces hits the fan, you find out your true mettle. In The Outpost, these reactions cover the spectrum and range from fear to bravery to acceptance.
The Battle of Kamdesh, as the skirmish at the heart of the film was known as, was a bloody engagement as the location of the base contributed to an American disadvantage. The Taliban had the higher ground and as the film points out, the battle's fallout included wide-sweeping changes within the military to dissolve such indefensible positions.
One of the most effective techniques used in the film is that it opens with the arrival of fresh troops to the base. Immediately the audience is thrust into the danger and it helps to reflect the realism of the situation. There is no slow buildup to establish character. No, this is a real look at a deadly environment where even the soldiers might not get to know your name before an unlucky bullet ends your time on this planet.
And yet, over the course of the first half of the film, the audience is given a fly-on-the-wall look at the camaraderie that is forged between those in battle. It's certainly not rated PG and it definitely rang true to me. So when the film's culminating battle unfolds over the second half of the film, the audience is completely invested and each casualty is a dagger to the heart.
Speaking of the cast, it features a veritable who's who of Hollywood A-list offspring. Scott Eastwood looks like the spitting image of his father and his acting chops aren't far off either. Milo Gibson has plenty of experience with war movies thanks to Mel and it pays off in spades. James Jagger is still relatively new to acting, but it's pretty apparent that he inherited his Dad's famous moves.
In particular, Scott Eastwood shines in his role and you can see him following his father's path to Hollywood success. Not only is he convincing playing a Medal of Honor award-winner, but he has a certain presence that connects with the audience. At times, I was wondering if I was watching outtakes from Heartbreak Ridge.
If you're into realistic war action, than The Outpost is for you. As I mentioned, the main battle in the film goes on for nearly an hour of non-stop heart-pounding action. You barely have time to catch your breath and it really immerses the audience into the battle.
224614{The Outpost is now available on Blu-ray and DVD.
