Review of The Messenger (2009) by Jim G — 10 Sep 2010

â??The Messengerâ?? tells the story of two soldiers whose unenviable job it is to inform deceased soldiersâ?? next of kin that their loved one has been killed. Woody Harrelson, in an Oscar-nominated role, and Ben Foster deliver the performances of their careers as they portray conflicting views of patriotism and service to oneâ??s country.

Both soldiers are coping with survivorâ??s guilt, and their brutal struggle to make sense of their experiences in battle and in grief is both painful and cathartic. This is a well-written and emotionally honest film that moves slowly in spots, but its unflinching honesty provides redemption.

If you overlooked this one in theaters (or if it never made it to your town), catch it on DVD.