DVD Corner

12 Strong 4K UHD Review

“12 Strong” is a tedious war film.

“12 Strong” is a true story that is also based on the novel “Horse Soldiers.” The story: After 9/11, Green Berets Captain Mitch Nelson opts to step back into duty to lead his former 12 man squad (Special Forces ODA 595) into Afghanistan to launch an attack on Taliban and Al-Qaeda forces led by Razzan. 595 is aided by Northern Alliance forces headed by General Dostum. Nelson and Dostum end up clashing which complicates the mission.

Undoubtedly made in response to the box office hit “American Sniper,” 2018’s “12 Strong” is another Iraq War film about an incredible true story. In this case, it’s about a once classified mission that took place mere weeks after 9/11 and miraculously wrapped in 3 weeks. All 12 men in the squad survived the mission. As compelling as this heroic story may be, this Jerry Bruckheimer produced film penned by Ted Tally and Peter Craig leaves a lot to be desired.

Despite tight direction by Nicolai Fugisig and stunning New Mexico cinematography by Rasmus Videbaek (the real MVP here), “12 Strong” is a tedious war film that lacks characterization. Rather than having a strong narrative to guide the true story (or one that further explores the war in greater depth), it feels more like a series of battle sequences involving ground combat, shootouts on horses, and plane bombings. Sure, the battles are well choreographed with the practical explosions and shootouts, but you know the film is underwhelming when you’ve seen more emotional and complex war stories in “Call Of Duty” or “Battlefield” video games. 

The strong cast is largely wasted here. Chris Hemsworth is a little wooden at times, but does a commendable job in leading the film. Michael Shannon, Taylor Sheridan, William Fichtner and Michael Peña are all rather underutilized. The only actor who really shines here is Navid Negahban as General Dostum. He has a real screen presence and proves to be the most intriguing figure on screen.

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 2.40:1 2160p. How does it look? If you’re a fan of “12 Strong,” you’ll be happy to know this 4k transfer delivers a crisp new print.

Audio Track: Dolby Atmos. How does it sound? From the helicopters to the explosions, this Atmos track is nothing if not lively.

Extras:
* “12 Strong: The Making Of An Impossible Mission” featurette.
* Original theatrical trailer
* “Monumental Effort: Building America’s Response Monument”- A look at the creation of the horse soldier statue.

May 16, 2024 - Posted by nicklyons1 | 4K UHD Review | 12 Strong, 12 Strong 4K UHD Review, Chris Hemsworth, True Story, War Film