Review of Good Kill (2015) by Brett H — 27 Apr 2015

A strong return to thought-provoking cinema from Andrew Niccol who's commercial films weren't doing him any favours and this is his best work since, Lord Of War. Wisely re-teaming with Ethan Hawke who delivers a subdued but effective performance as a former pilot who's struggling with his new mission being more akin to a video game then real combat.

The film isn't loud, preachy, or anti-USA/anti-Middle East; it lies neutral and gives you a fly-on-the-wall, equal-opportunistic look at modern combat. The performances are excellent and the idea that you can be killing terrorists from a bunker in Vegas and still be able to see your family every night is rich material that sticks with you.

There are some nail-biting, tragic scenes that take place and harsh acts of cruelty that some may find hard to stomach, but I feel it handles the PTSD elements stronger than the recent, American Sniper.

It's a solid, thinking-man's, war film that features tight direction, topical content, and great performances from the cast!