Lord of War
Lions Gate Films | Release Date: September 16, 2005
8.5
USER SCORE
Universal acclaim based on 498 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
433
Mixed:
41
Negative:
24
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User Reviews

User scoreBy dateMost helpful
9
Khunter4382Jun 6, 2011
Arguably one of Cage's best roles, and Hawke does pretty darn good to! This film begins with one of the most entertaining openings I've ever seen. The characters mean something to you backed by an ironclad story and top rate performances. WeArguably one of Cage's best roles, and Hawke does pretty darn good to! This film begins with one of the most entertaining openings I've ever seen. The characters mean something to you backed by an ironclad story and top rate performances. We are given another perspective of war.....the business side, and the result is shockingly entertaining!… Expand
6 of 6 users found this helpful60
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8
The3AcademySinsJan 29, 2019
All at once a character study, family drama, black comedy, and surprisingly accurate look at the world of a gunrunner, Lord of War is easily one of the lowkey better films of 2005. Nicolas Cage is fantastic, and his supporting cast comprisingAll at once a character study, family drama, black comedy, and surprisingly accurate look at the world of a gunrunner, Lord of War is easily one of the lowkey better films of 2005. Nicolas Cage is fantastic, and his supporting cast comprising of Ethan Hawke, Jared Leto, and Bridget Moynahan are more than capable in their respective roles. The script is dark and biting, but never shies away from its anti-war message. The strength of this film is it's focus on the black market, rather than on war itself being evil. This is a movie I definitely recommend.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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10
NedB.Sep 23, 2005
The best movie I've seen in years....see it now!
1 of 1 users found this helpful
9
miccaelNov 7, 2018
I really liked it. Amazing intro. Interesting but predictable story but still cool to see.
I learned a lot from this movie
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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7
FilipeNetoJul 25, 2018
This film, allegedly based (very lightly) on actual events, tells the story of a Russian-American gun dealer and confronts the immorality of the war and arm business. It would even be depressing if it weren't ironic. Irony is the key toThis film, allegedly based (very lightly) on actual events, tells the story of a Russian-American gun dealer and confronts the immorality of the war and arm business. It would even be depressing if it weren't ironic. Irony is the key to perceive the taunts of a film that takes for granted the inevitability of violence: just like food, death is a human need and man will always feel the urge to kill his fellow man. This provocation is the starting point for a trip to the world of arms trafficking, through the eyes of a trafficker who has surely killed more people than a nuclear bomb and who seems to live in a parallel reality. For him, the death of a child-soldier is sad, but its worse if its with arms purchased from the competition. All this shows us that this is a sarcastic movie, but with little drama and no characters that we can enjoy.

As far as actors are concerned, the film is based on a good performance by Nicholas Cage, perhaps one of his best film performances to date. He is not one of the actors that I particularly like, so I was surprised to have liked his work here. The rest of the cast merely seeks to support him with poorly structured and developed characters. Jared Leto was a casting error.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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9
FaxthtaxFeb 2, 2020
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This movie flew under the radar when it came. Few talked about it, because they were certain that it was another straight-to-DVD from Cage. They were so wrong.
After a suberb opening, you are thrown into a day in the life of a cook-turned-gunrunner to give you an insight how the global gun trade works. Well probably not completely after the book but it does an outstanding job depicting the bloody tragedy of it. Especially the scene where he sits to the table in the african savannah dealing guns to the rebels, where he knows the villagers just a stonesthrow away will die with his bullets. Straight-A powerful projectory of the brutality of it.
Fantastic characters, Cage has never done it better since this, Jared Leto plays his coked up brother great as well, and Ethan Hawke is the guy chasing Cage´s tail, also great.
How can you rate this movie down? Those who read the title of the movie and expect Michael Bay trash, you are so in it for the wrong ride. This movie is about what takes place behind the action, behind the war, bloodshed and genocide in this world.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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10
PerineumJan 14, 2020
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Kono, the name to which the ship is changed, is a diamond-rich area of Sierra Leone named for a tribe that lives there.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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9
Depose570May 16, 2021
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1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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9
Embalmer98Jun 10, 2021
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1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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10
MovieGuysAug 11, 2014
Lord of War is a strong, potent film that (besides adding accurate commentary on gun trading), has many alternative themes about life. It reminds us that sometimes, having everything you want is a bad thing, and that being at war withLord of War is a strong, potent film that (besides adding accurate commentary on gun trading), has many alternative themes about life. It reminds us that sometimes, having everything you want is a bad thing, and that being at war with yourself is far worse than any global conflict. It is well-acted, well-scripted, and never boring. It is a rare 21st century Nick Cage movie that is actually good.… Expand
14 of 16 users found this helpful142
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7
FadeBlackFeb 26, 2017
A movie with a very important, highly relevant message that needs to be told, and for sure it was told in a very engaging and entertaining way. What brought it down from the platform of greatness is that unfortunately it gets way too boggedA movie with a very important, highly relevant message that needs to be told, and for sure it was told in a very engaging and entertaining way. What brought it down from the platform of greatness is that unfortunately it gets way too bogged down on the pressures to make it "sellable" - too much of the runtime was unnecessary superficial nonsense that stuck out as a sore thumb as it was clearly meant to attract simpler-minded dolts. So quite the shame at the end, but overall still a film that's well worth a watch.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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7
BroyaxApr 5, 2017
Un Nicolas Cage en pleine forme dans le rôle du trafiquant d'armes cynique et blasé... et très sympathique ma foi puisqu'il n'est présenté que comme un VRP, un VRP comme tant d'autres (!)... qui font leurs petites "affaires". Et comme PonceUn Nicolas Cage en pleine forme dans le rôle du trafiquant d'armes cynique et blasé... et très sympathique ma foi puisqu'il n'est présenté que comme un VRP, un VRP comme tant d'autres (!)... qui font leurs petites "affaires". Et comme Ponce Pilate, il s'en lave les mains, lui et les autres.

Tout le film fait preuve du même genre de cynisme emballé dans une ironie de tous les instants (ou presque), un choix qui le rapproche sensiblement d'une comédie mordante et un choix fort judicieux à mon avis puisqu'il fait réfléchir le spectateur tout en le faisant ricaner et plus si affinités.

C'est d'ailleurs très souvent la bonne méthode que de manier l'ironie cinglante et la satire pour dénoncer les absurdités du monde, cela évite en effet un misérabilisme malvenu.

Lord of War est donc bien réalisé et mène sa braque exactement là où il veut en venir malgré hélas quelques faux pas. Le personnage du frérot est détestable de maladresse et fait pièce rapportée ; quant au rôle de sa femme, il s'avère assez mal développé et reste peu crédible. Enfin, toute la partie de cache-cache avec l'idéaliste d'Interpol est des plus téléphonées.

Néanmoins, le film demeure assurément efficace et drôle en plus de réussir son pari : il dénonce sans être lourd, il dénonce avec intelligence. C'est rare de nos jours.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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7
Compi24Nov 28, 2012
Although its pacing can be a bit wonky, "Lord Of War" still features a very cleverly penned screenplay and an unquestionably magnetic performance from Nicolas Cage.
2 of 5 users found this helpful23
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8
L490Oct 7, 2011
I liked the opening of the movie, they used a very good soundtrack. Interesting movie, gives you an idea how illegal arms dealing goes. To sum up, good cast, storyline, characters. Especially I liked the characters. Worth watching.
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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2
JohnW.Feb 3, 2007
The fact that this film is entertaining purely to watch the protagonist's wife marginally saves it from the decrepit and unsubtle dialogue, uninspiring plot and the infuriating arrogance of Nicholas Cage's disastrous performance. The fact that this film is entertaining purely to watch the protagonist's wife marginally saves it from the decrepit and unsubtle dialogue, uninspiring plot and the infuriating arrogance of Nicholas Cage's disastrous performance. It is also worth your time to laugh at his ridiculous chat up lines and his attempt to portray an eighteen year old near the beginning which is bad beyond belief due to his middle aged looks.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
3
GregS.Nov 18, 2005
Left the movie after 20 minutes. Cage must like stretching the envelope but here he folded it in on himself. Terrible movie. But a great expose of the Americans love of weapons.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
0
SusanM.Oct 4, 2005
This is the #1 worst movie I have ever seen. Pathetic waste of time. Terrible story from beginning to end. This movie should never have been made. It doesn't have a single redeeming quality.
0 of 2 users found this helpful
3
JohnguySep 19, 2005
No conclusion. To preachy. Got boring half way through.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
3
BenV.Sep 20, 2005
Laziness is splattered over this boring production. Like the script writer in Adaptation says: good scripts do not have narration. This film has plenty of them, bogging the ending down much like how War of the Worlds did. Not worth your time Laziness is splattered over this boring production. Like the script writer in Adaptation says: good scripts do not have narration. This film has plenty of them, bogging the ending down much like how War of the Worlds did. Not worth your time or your intelligence.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
1
L.MayrJul 18, 2006
Finally I've seen LORD OF WAR. I wanted to see it since it was released in France back in May. What a piece of trash! It lacks any dramatic credibility, its plot is incoherent (if there is one), its characters are one-dimensional, and Finally I've seen LORD OF WAR. I wanted to see it since it was released in France back in May. What a piece of trash! It lacks any dramatic credibility, its plot is incoherent (if there is one), its characters are one-dimensional, and its dialogs are tacky and stale. Syriana next to it is a major masterpiece! I don't know if I should do a review, since the film is so bad, it is beyond any serious attempt at reviewing. Just to say that the devil, as we know, is in details, and the details are not at all Niccol's strong point. [***SPOILERS***] There is no such a thing as Interpol agents (contrary to the popular myth perpetuated by Hollywood and Ethan Hawke) - Interpol is an information clearing house located in Lyon, France, staffed with international bureaucrats and directed by a former NYU law professor. Its employees have no legal powers to arrest anyone! Soviet (Ukrainian) Jews on Brighton Beach couldn't care less about Ukraine - the cradle of East European anti-Semitism (as Yuri Orlov's younger drug addict brother who nostalgically makes the map of Ukraine with the cocaine lines - tackier than that would only be the map of the US made with the lines of heroin by the film maker Niccol himself). Finally Orlov is not a Jewish name, contrary to what the main protagonist states in the beginning of the film. It is as Russian as Stoly vodka and Gorbachev's perestroika! In fact, Yuri Orlov is the name of a Soviet dissident, founder of the Moscow Helsinki group in the 1970s. Gun running may be a mortal sin, but spreading ignorance by making big-budget pretentious B-movies with Nikolas Cage is almost as bad. If anything, Cage deserves better than that! Post A Comment!… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
2
joelNov 11, 2005
This film made me laugh only once and that was still too much for a film based on such a serious subject. it seemed at times to be trying to make cage into a likeable character even though his actions are as morally wrong as is possible, This film made me laugh only once and that was still too much for a film based on such a serious subject. it seemed at times to be trying to make cage into a likeable character even though his actions are as morally wrong as is possible, this is an even worse flaw in the film when you consider its based on real events. on top of this the action is poor and i can't see how any one could find it enjoyable.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
3
HowieJan 18, 2006
The screenplay is weak and full of "newbie" cliches: it's extremely expository and hampered by wall-to-wall voiceover in a desperate attempt to make sense. The characters show no dimension -- they simply walk through plot. The writer The screenplay is weak and full of "newbie" cliches: it's extremely expository and hampered by wall-to-wall voiceover in a desperate attempt to make sense. The characters show no dimension -- they simply walk through plot. The writer didn't even do basic research, e.g. Interpol cannot wiretap in the US nor does it report to the US president. Great cinematography saves this from a zero rating.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
3
MikeOJan 22, 2006
The introduction was pretty good - following the bullet - cool graphics.... Then, it sucked. I lost interest in the movie half way through it. It didn't have the WOW factor.
0 of 2 users found this helpful
2
EricD.Jan 22, 2006
Super lame and boring.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
0
EdFeb 8, 2006
Terribly lame and boring. No twists... you know exactly how this movie is going to end from the start. To quote Homer Simpson, "Booorrrring."
0 of 1 users found this helpful
0
VanceB.Oct 11, 2005
A two-hour anti-gun commercial.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
2
DustyL.Sep 27, 2005
This was like watching a slide show with Nicolas Cage narrating. If you're looking for an action movie, don't pick this one. If you're looking for a convoluted statement about worldwide arms suppliers, then this movie is for This was like watching a slide show with Nicolas Cage narrating. If you're looking for an action movie, don't pick this one. If you're looking for a convoluted statement about worldwide arms suppliers, then this movie is for you. Did I mention that Nicolas Cage narrates?… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
3
ClaireR.Jan 19, 2006
The opening was so compelling and masterful then the movie just fell on its face. It did not hold my interest as I was waiting for the opening scene to continue. should have stuck to the point (gun running.)
0 of 2 users found this helpful
6
HealingToolboxDec 3, 2020
Thank You for Smoking meets Blood Diamonds. A daunting narrative task. Too long. Very mixed reviews by both pros and users tells me 1-2 scenes should have been deleted. It lacks too much humanity in its parody-meets-inconvenient-truths toThank You for Smoking meets Blood Diamonds. A daunting narrative task. Too long. Very mixed reviews by both pros and users tells me 1-2 scenes should have been deleted. It lacks too much humanity in its parody-meets-inconvenient-truths to be a long movie. Acting is very good. Cage, Monihan, Leto are at their best. The real stand-out performances for me are the father son duo of Liberia. Good production values. My guess is this project had too little adult supervision at the script stage. Selling a hard look at a forbidden, ugly social, political cultural truth would need a stronger story sense to create a commercial hit.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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5
MovieMasterEddyApr 3, 2016
"Lord of War," a misfire of a political satire about the international gun market, opens with a killer scene: Nicolas Cage standing on a veritable carpet of bullet casings. Mr. Cage's character, Yuri Orlov, is a gunrunner who has placed"Lord of War," a misfire of a political satire about the international gun market, opens with a killer scene: Nicolas Cage standing on a veritable carpet of bullet casings. Mr. Cage's character, Yuri Orlov, is a gunrunner who has placed untold weapons in untold numbers of hands. Now, surrounded by gutted buildings and dressed to impress, a cigarette burning between his fingers, Yuri looks straight into the camera and wonders aloud how he can furnish everyone in the world with a gun to call his very own.

This carpet of casings also serves as a launching pad for a subsequent and even more outlandish opening credit sequence that tracks a bullet from its manufacture in Russia to its final resting place in the skull of a young African. A bullet in the head always seizes the imagination or at least the audience's attention, but because the African is merely cinematic collateral damage, the image registers both as showboating and as a warning shot for the problems to come. The screenwriter for "Lord of War," Andrew Niccol, lavishes a great deal of time and many words building a case against guns; unfortunately, the film's director, who also happens to be Mr. Niccol, enjoys playing with toy guns. His words may say no, but his overworked, overslick visual style says lock and load, baby.

The problem, of course, is that violence is so inherently cinematic, so visually and aurally captivating. Loud pops, big bangs and the sights and sounds of bodies seizing up and spurting blood have long been the stock in trade of certain movies, which partly explains why the bangs are getting ever louder, the bloodletting more spectacular. The noise in these films has grown so deafening that it can be hard to hear the message (if there even is one), especially when that message carries a familiar, been-there, done-that, eat-your-oatmeal-because-it's-good-for-you moralism. Like: guns are bad, corporations are soulless, and some first world governments traffic in third world misery. To which any reasonably informed viewer might be expected to wonder, And your point is what, exactly?

Mr. Niccol's point here, it appears, is both to entertain and to instruct with the story of Yuri, a Russian émigré who rises from humble Brooklyn to become a globe-trotting gunrunner with all the moral reasoning of a flea. Guided by Mr. Cage's intermittent voice-over, the story tracks Yuri's decades-long evolution as a merchant of death saddled with a few familiar distractions: a beautiful model wife played by Bridget Moynahan and a drug-addled brother played by Jared Leto.

Yuri gets his break in the early 1990's when he snaps up materiel in the recently imploded Ukraine that he subsequently offloads in war-ravaged Africa. Like everything else in this film, Mr. Cage's performance is watchable if never credible because his director never resolves the disconnect between this star's function (to entertain) and that of his character (to repel).… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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4
MurbaynOct 9, 2019
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Great movie. Good story line imo and Cage just nails the role. Shows a unique perspective into arms dealing.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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5
Gamzguy17Aug 22, 2021
It's some serious subject matter and the film has its memorably poignant scenes/lines, but "Lord of War" greatly suffers from a cliché script with the Nicolas Cage narration holding our hands and ears through a prickly forest ofIt's some serious subject matter and the film has its memorably poignant scenes/lines, but "Lord of War" greatly suffers from a cliché script with the Nicolas Cage narration holding our hands and ears through a prickly forest of predictability. Show, don't tell.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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7
JulienC.Oct 2, 2005
Good movie, not exceptional but offers good insight and an interesting perspective I think, you'll have a good time.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
DanielB.Oct 7, 2005
I am truly bewildered by a couple of the extremely negative user comments here. I can only think that Susan M., who says this is the worst movie she has ever seen, is an ardent gun enthusiast and was offended by the movie's overall anti I am truly bewildered by a couple of the extremely negative user comments here. I can only think that Susan M., who says this is the worst movie she has ever seen, is an ardent gun enthusiast and was offended by the movie's overall anti gun message. But to say that this movie "doesn't have a single redeeming quality"? It's an absurd, puerile statement that has nothing to do with this movie. Same goes for Dusty L., who says this is "a slide show" and to look elsewhere for action. Again, I have to wonder if he saw a different movie. Actually, if you like action, you'll be glad to know Lord of War has some terrific (admittedly usually brief) action, including an extraordinary sequence involving a plane making an emergency landing on a highway crowded with people, a truly jawdropping and thrilling scene. Other "redeeming qualities" this movie has: biting wit -- it's very funny; terrific editing; wonderful widescreen lensing with fantastic color and production design; strong performances from Cage, Leto, Holm, and many others; and great music. I saw it last night, and only wish I had seen it earlier so I could have told more people earlier to go and see it.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
JeffM.Jul 6, 2006
Stylish and fascinating. It deserved better during its theatrical run.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
ThomasMc--Oct 21, 2005
If you don't like weapons - guns, for those who don't know - I wouldn't recommend this. All that took was watching a preview or generally knowing what it is you are watching. If you do like weapons, war, and Nick Cage - If you don't like weapons - guns, for those who don't know - I wouldn't recommend this. All that took was watching a preview or generally knowing what it is you are watching. If you do like weapons, war, and Nick Cage - basically if you are a guy - then this movie will do it for you. Great stuff, I loved it.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
xghalwDec 4, 2005
You have to be kidding me. this barely makes it through the green light. The movie is so fantastic, Cage is so cool that i bet some arms dealer is gonna shut this website down for good. And critics wake up, this movie is a slap in the face You have to be kidding me. this barely makes it through the green light. The movie is so fantastic, Cage is so cool that i bet some arms dealer is gonna shut this website down for good. And critics wake up, this movie is a slap in the face of pansy-journalistic morality which, as the movie tells, is a force without power.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
JaneOct 7, 2005
Niccol dares to deal with how the international traffic in weapons affects us without most people even being aware of it. And he does it with savvy. I have not yet read a review that mentions the key distinction Lord of War makes between Niccol dares to deal with how the international traffic in weapons affects us without most people even being aware of it. And he does it with savvy. I have not yet read a review that mentions the key distinction Lord of War makes between Yuri Orlov and Simeon Weisz, the two primary arms dealers shown here. Weisz (Ian Holm), who works with the CIA, says his aim is to change governments; he deals for a political purpose. Orlov (Nicolas Cage) does it because "I'm good at it" and he goes where the money is, not caring who gets the weapons. He also sells for the U.S. Government but, in addition, he makes his own deals, willy-nilly. Weisz believes his motivation is superior to Orlov's. Orlov challenges Weisz, reminding him that he (for the CIA) sold weapons to both Iran and Iraq (to use against each other). Weisz fires back that he wanted both of them to lose. There is no moral difference between these two men but their remarks about their own motivations provoke thoughts that ricochet against what we see happening in the world today. It's a thrilling insight and there are many like it in this shockingly (because it's in the multiplexes) profound view. Unfortunately many people will probably not understand exactly what they are seeing, and Lord of War may not get the recognition that it deserves. Jane Franklin.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
RobertW.Sep 17, 2005
Timely and much needed portrayal of the world today. Cage and Leto's characters are well-drawn and captivatingly acted.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
4
KenG.Sep 17, 2005
Script was lazy and slip-shot, and this was not one of Cage's better performances. Maybe because he was too busy doing voice- over narration, (which this movie relies way too much on). Lastly, I got no sense that this movie really knows Script was lazy and slip-shot, and this was not one of Cage's better performances. Maybe because he was too busy doing voice- over narration, (which this movie relies way too much on). Lastly, I got no sense that this movie really knows what it's talking about, or that film-makers made much of an effort researching this project. You won't actually learn anything about how the gun-traffic industry works.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
BitBurnSep 20, 2005
This is possibly Nicolas Cage's best performance. The movie is disturbing but ironically funny and very informative. I liked it and hope you will too.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
TedM.Sep 30, 2005
An entertaining, witty, and disturbing take one of the most morally reprehensible professions a person can have. In many ways, it's better to tackle issues like gambling, drugs, gun running, and cigarettes from the perspective of the An entertaining, witty, and disturbing take one of the most morally reprehensible professions a person can have. In many ways, it's better to tackle issues like gambling, drugs, gun running, and cigarettes from the perspective of the people who make the sale of these vices their chosen career. I would've much preferred a version of "The Constant Gardener" told from the POV of the drug company scientist who arranges to do trials in impoverished regions of Africa.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
D.B.Feb 5, 2006
Absolutely terrific. For light entertainment, this one is actually incredibly powerful. It gets under your skin and makes you think. All the acting is really impressive, and the whole thing is just so bloody entertaining that it's Absolutely terrific. For light entertainment, this one is actually incredibly powerful. It gets under your skin and makes you think. All the acting is really impressive, and the whole thing is just so bloody entertaining that it's impossible to dislike, unless you're looking for a bad movie.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
StephB.Feb 7, 2006
I enjoyed the movie from the beginning. I would say it's the best movie I've seen in a long time!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
4
JohnP.Sep 1, 2006
Like 'Blow' with guns instead of drugs, and less interesting content. I think Nicolas Cage is a great actor, but I don't think he quite fit this character. Ethan Hawke was wasted in his role.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
BobQ.Oct 27, 2005
This a film very well written, the dialogues are very smart.It's a clever action film.Cage is wonderfull.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
fobertoQ.Sep 17, 2005
Terrific.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
DanB.Sep 17, 2005
Like all of this director's films, all the parts are there, all the key scenes, all the cleverness and the drama, the emotion, the poignancy, etc -- but somehow it doesn't add up to being great. Something's always missing from Like all of this director's films, all the parts are there, all the key scenes, all the cleverness and the drama, the emotion, the poignancy, etc -- but somehow it doesn't add up to being great. Something's always missing from his movies. I have no idea what. At the same time, they're smarter than most movies, and they're still pretty good. And Lord of War is not an exception.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
SuzanneS.Sep 24, 2005
Excellent!! Movie makes the viewer physically react. Also makes them think.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
PatB.Sep 29, 2005
Brilliant.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
AramisG.Jan 18, 2006
Puts a human face on some of the worst acts against humanity in recent memory. Cage is fine in his dry deliverance. How else would an international arms dealer act. They know what they are contributing to.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
LarryS.Jan 20, 2006
Superb film with a lot to say. Cage is brilliant. Direction and music are fabulous. RENT IT!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
JohnM.Jan 27, 2006
i was expecting a movie that wasnt gonna be very good based on the boxoffice, but actually it was alright, Cage pulled off his role great and it had some good one liners, ill probably see it again.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
ChrystalFeb 12, 2006
I though this movie was great. Where everyone is getting boring from, I don't know. This movie is intriguing and interesting. Nicholas Cage does a great acting job in this film. This movie goes to show that there will never be peace in I though this movie was great. Where everyone is getting boring from, I don't know. This movie is intriguing and interesting. Nicholas Cage does a great acting job in this film. This movie goes to show that there will never be peace in this world we live in. I'd recommend this movie to everyone.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
JerryFeb 17, 2006
Alas Ed completely missed the point. No twist in this film, because it is all about inevitabilities. The ending is predictable, but what is really the point is that the characters can not avoid their fate, or are unwilling to do so. Alas Ed completely missed the point. No twist in this film, because it is all about inevitabilities. The ending is predictable, but what is really the point is that the characters can not avoid their fate, or are unwilling to do so. Entertaining, yet thought-provoking without being too full of itself.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
BrianD.Feb 2, 2006
This is probably the best movie I will see this year. Too bad there arnt more movies like this that avoid normal movie mistakes.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
BobV.Mar 6, 2006
After watching this movie, my wife and I felt like crap! We felt betrayed by our government, both present and past for this kind of under the radar covert activity by using 3rd party gun dealers to incite battles through out the world. It After watching this movie, my wife and I felt like crap! We felt betrayed by our government, both present and past for this kind of under the radar covert activity by using 3rd party gun dealers to incite battles through out the world. It was very thought provoking and made us realize why so many people around the world hate America. I felt ashamed and never realized how true this story is and feel sorry that more people have not seen this movie which exposes what goes on behind the smiling political faces we see daily on the news.… Expand
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10
GeckatSep 7, 2006
Yes, I'm giving it a 10, simply because I found it different from the other so-called 'black comedy' in the box office these days. It actually has a moral, a theme. It's not just trying to make you 'not wanna Yes, I'm giving it a 10, simply because I found it different from the other so-called 'black comedy' in the box office these days. It actually has a moral, a theme. It's not just trying to make you 'not wanna laugh' with pointless sex and violence. I can understand why some people wouldn't like the movie, seeing that it's more like a documentary-gone-movie, but I guess that's just my thing.… Expand
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8
GuidoS.Jan 19, 2008
This is an excellent movie that deals with diverse aspects of an arms dealer life. Don't listen to the more commercial movie critics as they usually fail to relate an thus accept a main character that's amoral and is not your This is an excellent movie that deals with diverse aspects of an arms dealer life. Don't listen to the more commercial movie critics as they usually fail to relate an thus accept a main character that's amoral and is not your standard issue action hero or villain. Here Cage is just a human being with human ambitions and problems. You'll really enjoy this movie if you're open minded, but if you watch it expecting a Rambo or Die Hard type of movie you'll sure be disappointed.… Expand
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4
ApocalypseB.Apr 19, 2009
The subject matter was something I have a great interest in, pity it was badly let down by some one dimensional acting and third rate directing. Firstly the acting: Cage is a decent actor in the right role, Family Man, The Rock or Snake The subject matter was something I have a great interest in, pity it was badly let down by some one dimensional acting and third rate directing. Firstly the acting: Cage is a decent actor in the right role, Family Man, The Rock or Snake Eyes. But that is his limit, as the main character in the film needed an actor who could accurately display the inner ambition/turmoil which was Yuri. But Cage wasn't the only guilty one, all the actors bar Yuri brother and Ethan Hawke were so badly portrayed it rubbished the moral issues entirely, leaving me the viewer totally disconnected with any feeling towards them. Which leads to the directing: A good director should first engage the mind, then challenge it along with the heart. After half an hour my mind was fed up of cursing how scenes were recklessly stitched together, I switched off completely. You can not have such a good idea throw onto screen with no consideration towards the overall point, coupled with the silliest ending I ever seen the film fails on every front. My last point is a poster who remarked about anti-Semitic something, well that's rich considering the film portrayed every ethnic race in a dark light expect Jews! Paranoia and just pure blindness L.Mayr, maybe if you talked about the dis-proportionate black and black on screen violence I would of had a bit more respect and sympathy!… Expand
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10
jayk.Aug 25, 2009
Gives you information, insight with entertainment.
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9
ThomasL.Sep 18, 2005
Believable characters (if occasionally woodenly acted)...touching overall. For once a movie where you care about what happens to the main character (even if he's reprehensible and vile). Got a sort of "Traffic" vibe but the plot was Believable characters (if occasionally woodenly acted)...touching overall. For once a movie where you care about what happens to the main character (even if he's reprehensible and vile). Got a sort of "Traffic" vibe but the plot was different enough to hold me interested. A million times better than your average "Anti-hero" flick.… Expand
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8
NickH.Sep 18, 2005
I was suprised. I thought I was in for a more action driven film. It's not. Not in the least. This movie is a character study set inside a dark, dark, dark comedy with some dramatic elements. Go see it.
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5
JesseM.Sep 23, 2005
This movie was good, yet very dull. The movie is just the same thing over and over. I wouldn't watch it again.
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10
BryanT.Jan 18, 2006
There is no reason you should not love this movie. I saw somebody put a 3 for a rating and then justified it by saying he left after 20 minutes. You cannot give a good rating or review if you see the first 20 minutes of this wonderful movie. There is no reason you should not love this movie. I saw somebody put a 3 for a rating and then justified it by saying he left after 20 minutes. You cannot give a good rating or review if you see the first 20 minutes of this wonderful movie. You know nothing about it.… Expand
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9
KyleR.Jan 21, 2006
Good, deep movie. Definitely worth a rental at least. Great acting, wasn't bored throughout the entire movie. Don't know what's with the low reviews. Awesome in my book.
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6
GaborA.Jan 29, 2006
Most critic reviews seem be saying the same thing, but I disagree. Unlike they say there really isnt that much riveting information in this film. However, unlike they say there is a plot to this movie. The problem is we've seen this Most critic reviews seem be saying the same thing, but I disagree. Unlike they say there really isnt that much riveting information in this film. However, unlike they say there is a plot to this movie. The problem is we've seen this story a million times along with all of its themes. What is suprisingly good about the movie is the directing and a script that evokes laughs and social awarness quite well.… Expand
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8
KouroshA.Feb 15, 2006
nicholas cage's acting is marvelous.He gets the very unpleasant message through with a very terse and dry style unique of his own.The message of his character don't go to war specially with yourself which is the bitter but the true nicholas cage's acting is marvelous.He gets the very unpleasant message through with a very terse and dry style unique of his own.The message of his character don't go to war specially with yourself which is the bitter but the true rule of survival in our time.… Expand
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8
CrysaniaApr 11, 2006
Superbly directed and brilliantly portrayed by Nic Cage (this is another reason he
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9
HobagS.Jun 11, 2007
This movie was tight. It had tits in it and the action scenes were very well done with a compelling storyline filled with many interesting twists as well, but there were also nice titties.
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6
TyranianMar 15, 2020
Decent Goodfellas-like film though not nearly as well-written. Cage is okay.
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10
gracjanskiSep 24, 2021
Finally a movie with a theme, that you seldom see in movies, especially with such big names and good budget. In addition you learn a lot about smuggling and wars. Also the movie is entertaining.
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5
Voodoo123Jul 24, 2019
Lord Of War is a well produced and often entertaining film that carries a noble message and sports an array of interesting story beats. Despite these qualities it often fails by mistaking its own flamboyance for elegance. 5 cages out of aLord Of War is a well produced and often entertaining film that carries a noble message and sports an array of interesting story beats. Despite these qualities it often fails by mistaking its own flamboyance for elegance. 5 cages out of a possible 10.… Expand
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8
CoreGamer1408Oct 24, 2021
Peak Cage, but not peak over the top Cage. Interesting anti-war and anti-gun message, but hey I like guns, guns, guns, so. Plus any chance of fighting the machine looks like a lost cause, because of the current global power dymanics. Still aPeak Cage, but not peak over the top Cage. Interesting anti-war and anti-gun message, but hey I like guns, guns, guns, so. Plus any chance of fighting the machine looks like a lost cause, because of the current global power dymanics. Still a relevant film to re-watch even into todays day for sure.… Expand
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8
tarekaliJan 1, 2022
I recently rewatched this modern classic. Nicholas Cage remains a most accessible and plausible character especially in roles like this, where a clever fellow discerns a golden path to riches and sells his soul during the flawed journey.
InI recently rewatched this modern classic. Nicholas Cage remains a most accessible and plausible character especially in roles like this, where a clever fellow discerns a golden path to riches and sells his soul during the flawed journey.
In the IMDB trivia, it is interesting this movie was never funded by US sources, probably because the truth hits a little too close to home, and makes people uncomfortable. As the movie ironically points out, the biggest arms suppliers on the planet are also permanent members of the UN security council.
Back to the movie itself. Since it is based on real lords of war and warlords, it’s coldly terrifying to see how easy the means for mass murder have been made available across the world. As many have noted, it is far easier to kill from a distance than from up close, giving the killers a false sense of morality and deniability. This movie has aged very well - the insidious arms trade it highlights is as active and lethal today as it was for the last 100 years. As a beloved game series Fallout points out, “War. War never changes.”… Expand
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7
DawdlingPoetNov 24, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This isn't the war action film you may expect it to be, don't expect lots of fast paced action scenes, though there are a few and its not really escapist in one sense either. Its quite a somber movie that seems pretty realistic and so is quite chilling at points. It has quite a sort of crooked ending too, though it may be seen as a bit predictable which is the movies main downside, by some, if you put a great deal of thought into where the story is ultimately headed.

It is a moral movie in a sense, certainly by the end it could have you thinking about what the movie teaches you, which I wouldn't want to give away but it ends with some rather saddening statistics and there's the element of the developing world versus the developed world and how crooked things may be in reality, much against what some people might think, if that gives a clue. It is interesting to see the way that Yuri is treated by some of the people that he deals with and the situations that he finds himself in. He shares some of his observations by way of narration at points, one dry comedy moment of sorts being when one of his clients didn't take too kindly to his rejection of being given drugs as payment for a shipment when he doesn't want to get involved in selling drugs, only firearms and the guy shot him with one of his own guns, whereby he advises that 'The first and most important rule of gun-running is: Never get shot with your own merchandise.'(!). There is a fair bit of dry humour to the narration, so expect a fair bit of that. The story itself I thought was a bit slow and certainly it wasn't what I was presuming it to be in terms of a fast paced action movie but I suppose I should have perhaps expected that with it being a Nicolas Cage movie, in that he often appears in more quirky movies that aren't quite what you expect and I thought that it was quite interesting in exploring the issues of such an industry, if industry is the relevant term(?). You can't quite figure out, as a viewer, I felt, whether or not Yuri was really evaluating the morality of what he does or not. He seems a pretty clued up kind of person that I think it becomes clear in some way that he takes the conscious decision to distance himself to a certain extent from things but what ends up happening may prove that its not possible to distance yourself fully... and thats all I'll say as far as giving away anymore of the story is concerned. There is a fair bit to it, so I don't feel that I have given away the entire story, its quite long at about two hours long.

I thought that Cage was probably a good choice of actor for the main role as he plays the part of a seemingly unflinching, fairly macho businessman quite well and he has the right sort of European ethnic look I suppose too that perhaps would seem to match his characters name and the sorts of places he tends to trade in.

Of course you might wonder if there isn't some degree of stereotyping in a sense, given the fact that the countries shown as doing the deals with Yuri in the movie are primarily in Eastern Europe (such as the Balkans) and at times Africa, rather than Mexico, South America or elsewhere closer to the US, where im sure they have and use firearms (Columbia?) but like I said under 'story', it is set during a specific time line in the 1980s and 1990s when the main wars happening were in those areas I believe, so it is fair enough in that respect I suppose.

I think that its more of a philosophical movie in a sense and at the end, it might well make you question some things. Its quite well acted and its about something serious that does go on, which makes it worthwhile being made, I feel, although it is perhaps a little slow and, again, not what some may expect or be wanting. Otherwise, yes I would recommend it.… Expand
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10
MikeS159Jul 22, 2020
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. One of my favourite films of all times. Great plot, loosely based on a true story. Cage and Leto are superb. Great music and visuals throughout. A brilliant mix of serious though provoking plot points and dark humour.
The fact that after everything he goes through he goes back to gun running (learning nothing) world normally feel hollow, but it works so well in this film!… Expand
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9
altmexMar 28, 2021
It’s a great movie. Beautiful, interesting, intellectual, it does not lose its appeal after subsequent viewings. Cage may not be universally liked but he’s certainly done a good job here. Great script unfolds in a very balanced way, ensuringIt’s a great movie. Beautiful, interesting, intellectual, it does not lose its appeal after subsequent viewings. Cage may not be universally liked but he’s certainly done a good job here. Great script unfolds in a very balanced way, ensuring that the viewer is not bored.… Expand
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9
Pluto744Jun 21, 2021
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