Review of Act of Valor (2012) by Louis L — 08 Feb 2013

Things I liked. The depiction of the SEALs as understated, intelligent, and deliberate professionals. Very different than the bravado that seems attached to them. The recognition that their first purpose is collecting intelligence, the violence is a side effect (even if it can get very violent). Viewing them as people with families and concerns outside of directed violence. Showing some of the planning and support that the teams depend on.

Things I don't like. The fact that one team has to be sent to all corners of the world. Isn't anyone else able to cover the other continents? Reminds me of Star Trek where there is only one starship in the quadrant. There are a large cast of characters, but only two of them are developed. And because the missions are so close together, the last mission is one of those by the seat of your pants missions without any of the planning or support they were so good to show earlier. Basically, the last mission reverted to the Hollywood standard.