The Hurt Locker

I had meant to write a post about The Hurt Locker a couple of weeks back when I saw it over at The Galeria Odeon. Set in Baghdad during 2003 it follows a three man team of bomb disposal specialists (actually it is only one of them who is the expert, the other two are detailed to protect him). This is a great film and if you enjoy highly intense cinematic experiences you'll love this. The characters are developed well - especially the bomb expert (whose name I've managed to forget!) and you can see how he gets off on the adrenalin rush he receives from defusing roadside explosives. Only a couple of minor irks. One concerning their encounter with an SAS unit who seem largely ineffectual in a firefight situation but the bomb squad save the day by doing some sniping, which seems odd because you wouldn't think that is wear their skills would lie. Secondly you don't see any commanding officer so it gives the impression they can do what they damn well like (which they do!). Actually both these criticisms don't detract from the film so don't let it put you off. Highly recommended.

Rating: 8/10