Films/DVD Asylum

Posted by Billy Wonka (A) on November 18, 2016 at 18:00:09

in a most complex and mesmerizing way. Billy Lynn got the Silver Star for facing fire while trying to save his seargent (Diesel) on the field of battle in Saddam's Iraq. The Big Brass decided the public needs some heroes so Billy's squad arrives in the USA for a two weeks PR tour.

This film shows what undiagnosed PTSD is and how it affects the young men who fight our battles. Billy feels deep affection for his sister (Stewart) and for his "brothers". She wants Billy to apply for a discharge and Billy struggles with the idea feeling he should never leave his squad. There are temptations dangled in front of him and the squad in the form of Chris Tucker (the manager), Steve Martin (Dallas football team owner), and the scrumptious Makenzie Leigh (young Dallas cheerleader).

We also see their story in flashbacks sprinkled throughout the film and finally a coherent piece of it that shows what really happened. There is a moment when Billy gets into hand-to-hand with a Haji who looks into the camera as he bleeds out. The second time this was flashed I closed my eyes as it really brings home the message of war. Nobody wins but the politicians.

This is a very creative film with a good script and ripe performances. Lee has taken such a near mundane subject (PTSD) and turned it into a near "majical" experience.

Worth a walk in.