From a U.S. military base nestled in the expanse of the Sulu Sea, a stark message greets the audience: “We are in a war… we just don’t know it.” This sets the stage for a gripping tale as soldiers embark on a clandestine mission, aptly termed a “sterilized op.” Among them are the Hemsworth brothers, Ricky Whittle, and the formidable Milo Ventimiglia, with support from drone pilots stationed thousands of miles away in the comfort of Las Vegas.
Directed by William Eubank and penned by David Frigerio, ‘Land of Bad’ commendably delves into the harsh realities of 21st-century warfare, both in its narrative and thematic depth. The story unfolds across diverse terrains, from dense jungles to grim underground prisons.
Amidst the chaos, Whittle’s character reflects, “When tech fails, it all comes down to one very simple thing—man killing man,” encapsulating the grim essence of their reality and welcoming a newcomer to “the land of bad.”
As the plot thickens, the squad encounters a spectrum of global terrorism, reshaped into a jingoistic spectacle. Russell Crowe, known for his past action roles, takes on the character of Reaper, a drone operator striving not only to keep the team alive amidst adversity but also to garner attention from indifferent superiors.
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However, moments intended to build suspense, such as Reaper’s mundane stop at a grocery store, only serve to elongate the film without adding substantial depth. Crowe’s portrayal, while compelling, evokes more of a mundane dialogue akin to Robert Hayes in ‘Airplane!’ than the iconic bravado of Tom Cruise’s Maverick.
‘Land of Bad’ offers a visceral glimpse into the complexities of modern warfare, juxtaposing high-tech warfare with the raw brutality of human conflict. Through its gripping narrative and compelling characters, the film invites viewers to ponder the moral implications and harsh realities of warfare in the contemporary world.