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9

royalguy07Jan 23, 2023

The moment to moment technical filmmaking during the big set piece moments was incredible.

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10

NdrwdvdbrsnOct 9, 2022

Kathryn Bigelow's film, The Hurt Locker, is a bit of a controversial best picture winner, but overall, I feel it's a great film. It's expertly directed, well written, and contains artistry in all of the smaller details. Sergeant First ClassKathryn Bigelow's film, The Hurt Locker, is a bit of a controversial best picture winner, but overall, I feel it's a great film. It's expertly directed, well written, and contains artistry in all of the smaller details. Sergeant First Class William James is one of the most interesting film protagonists in history.… Expand

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8

Richard552Aug 10, 2022

And the performance by Jeremy Renner in the lead role is fantastic. I understand that many parts of the movie are "unrealistic", as many people have complained about, but 100% of fictional movies are unrealistic.
$1 to buy a Netflix account,And the performance by Jeremy Renner in the lead role is fantastic. I understand that many parts of the movie are "unrealistic", as many people have complained about, but 100% of fictional movies are unrealistic.
$1 to buy a Netflix account, Google search: vtvshare… Expand

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7

Voodoo123Apr 19, 2022

Great cast, plot and action set pieces hammer in the point of war fatigue and mania that combat stress create in its participants.

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5

kyle20ellisMar 28, 2022

When I heard that The Hurt Locker had won Best Picture, I was keen on seeing if it lived up to my expectations. So I watched the film with my dad, brother and sister, and while there were some good things, such as the direction and how it wasWhen I heard that The Hurt Locker had won Best Picture, I was keen on seeing if it lived up to my expectations. So I watched the film with my dad, brother and sister, and while there were some good things, such as the direction and how it was made, I was left disappointed as well. I really wanted to like this film, but the thing was it didn't completely grip or excite me.

VISUALS: Definitely what made the movie. The locations and scenery gave a real sense of authenticity, and in general the camera work was good. Though in some scenes, there was a little much of the hand held camera stuff, unless it was intentional, some of the camera movements were rather shaky. The special effects were very good though, and there are some terrific looking set pieces.

SOUND: The sound is wonderful. If you have the film on the highest volume, the sound the bombs and guns make is close to deafening. The sound as well as the visuals added to the authenticity.

DIRECTION: Kathryn Bigelow's direction here is astounding. It is secure and focused and avoids red wire/yellow wire cliché and manages not to preach too much.

ACTING: I will be explaining later how disappointed I was in the character development, but I thought the acting was reasonably good with what they had. Jeremy Renner, Anthony Mackie and Brian Geraghty are believable and display good chemistry together. David Morse and Ralph Fiennes do what they can, which admittedly isn't much, in smaller roles. Evangeline Lilly looks lovely, but she doesn't do or say much other than be another person that one of the characters knows.

MUSIC: I am probably alone in this thought, but the music for me was a disappointment. There are parts where it is generic, and others where scenes are very dramatic where it felt somewhat intrusive.

SCRIPT: The actors don't really have that much to work with. Sure it focuses on the contrasting attitudes and philosophies of the three soldiers, who are aware that any job they do can be their last. The script doesn't do that to convey this though, some of it is clichéd and it felt like every 20 words when one character uttered an obscenity and then another. Plus it doesn't really say that much.

STORY: The story structure felt rather episodic in this film. Immediately after the characters do something they are immediately doing another thing without hesitation. After seeing half an hour or so of shooting guns I did start losing interest, maybe it was to do with the uneven pacing, and not even the final 10 minutes managed to excite me.

CHARACTERS: The characterisation is disappointingly thin here, and to almost all the characters I was indifferent to. Other than the fact they are soldiers and one of them has a wife and baby back home, you don't learn that much about the characters. Throughout they feel rather thinly sketched, perhaps it would've helped if the film had a couple of back stories like they do in Lost. That way I would have felt differently.

Overall, worth watching by all means, but I was expecting more. I am not going to make up your mind for you, but while there were some good things it didn't work for me as well as it could've done. 5/10 Bethany Cox… Expand

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9

NickTheCritickDec 4, 2021

Probabily a masterpiece in building tension and suspense. This movie, beautifully shot by Bigelow, explores a typical day of a bomb squad in Iraq and the psychological effect that a job like this can create (with all the repercussions on realProbabily a masterpiece in building tension and suspense. This movie, beautifully shot by Bigelow, explores a typical day of a bomb squad in Iraq and the psychological effect that a job like this can create (with all the repercussions on real life). It's also built on a solid performance by all the actors, especially Jeremy Renner who is at his best here. It's probabily the best Bigelow's movie.… Expand

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6

AssPussiMar 8, 2022

One of the best films of the year or any year. Masterful. One of the best films of the year or any year. Masterful.

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10

cdougallAug 22, 2021

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The Hurt Locker is a movie whose brutal realism and accuracy makes it an incredibly engaging and successful film. This film stars one of my favorite actors, Jeremy Renner, who gives one of the best performances of his career and is great in every scene that he is in. His character is complex and representative of what happens to many people who go to war; you learn more about him as the movie goes on even though he doesn’t develop that much as a character. Hurt Locker is a fantastic dramatization and portrayal of the Iraq War and what it was actually like for the soldiers who’ve been there and the many dangers they faced during their tours. While the characters themselves are made up, the situations that they’re put in aren’t, and the way this movie portrays those situations is very well done and extremely realistic of what those situations would be like if any of us were there. This film does have some fun dialogue and interactions between characters, but for the most part it strikes a serious and nihilistic tone, which is appropriate for its premise. Hurt Locker manages to build anxiety and make you nervous but in a different way from how horror movies do it; you’re not fearful about what’s going to happen next, but you know how high the stakes are for the characters which keeps you gripped your seat a little bit nonetheless. There are no jump scares in this movie, but it still has heart-racing moments in its own regard. There is one really upsetting moment that defines the emotional stakes and makes it clear that there are consequences for your actions, even if those actions aren’t harmful in intent. Hurt Locker isn’t an entertaining movie, but it’s a very engaging and interesting one. This isn’t a film you have fun with, but one you watch for appreciation of the script, directing, acting and story, especially considering that this movie won the Academy Award for Best Picture. This movie doesn’t have a lot of rewatch value, but it’s good to see it every few years or so just to remind yourself of what happens (it’s also a plus, for me, that there are 4 MCU actors in this movie, Renner being one of them, though none were in the MCU at the time). The end is satisfying and could’ve definitely been the set-up for a sequel, but I’m glad that a sequel was never made since Hurt Locker stands so well on it’s own. Despite how many guns and explosions are in this movie, this isn’t quite a film for those who are fans of Call of Duty or GTA, though it does come close at times. For me, this movie is a must-see for people who appreciate good and realistic filmmaking and who are interested in the genre.… Expand

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7

AJ_13May 30, 2021

It manages to create tension and to make you feel like you are in Iraq. Really good directing and solid performances. However it may feel a bit repetitive, boring and unrealistic at times. Inglorious Basterds was robbed.

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9

geewahJan 24, 2021

Arguably the finest movie about the conflict in Iraq during the 2000's.
While it is a nail-biting ride, it is also a compelling character study.
One of 2009's best movies.

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5

LizmcdDec 28, 2020

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A bit disappointing to be honest. Has some good moments, great acting for sure but lacks a good story and it's repetitive. It's more like a fly on the wall documentary.… Expand

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9

FilmGuyDudeOct 30, 2020

Had to take a second glimpse at this anxiety fueled mesmerizing war film to understand it's execution. The directing is intense, Jeremy is superb, and the entire film overall is a grand work of art. Well done to everyone!

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9

ValgethOct 3, 2020

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The movie was great visually, lots of excellent high definition close up shots and well timed slow motion shots. The characters were very good also, very interesting with a lot of depth to them, Eldridge's interactions with his therapist for example was really compelling. The main character James is a douche but a believable douche. It has a lot of realism mixed up with fiction, which is good, the sniper scene for example was especially realistic. The movie was very episodic, kinda directionless at times, but each little episode showed different kinds of IEDs and how the team handles them, which is great, I love military tech.… Expand

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0

StrahlemannJul 5, 2020

Bad movie
I'm in team with master seargent sarver/military as a whole. This movie and the reaction of the critics defamed all soldiers. A "journalist" was granted the privilege to stay at a military unit in Iraq by the MoD and used thisBad movie
I'm in team with master seargent sarver/military as a whole. This movie and the reaction of the critics defamed all soldiers. A "journalist" was granted the privilege to stay at a military unit in Iraq by the MoD and used this opprtunity for darklighting soldiers in General and the master seargent in special.
He was not even granted participation by the Producers. This amount of greed is as immoral as the pseudo-pacifist leftists which the producers are.… Expand

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0

BullzzOct 7, 2019

I wonder how the movie managed to get so many good reviews. Did the US military pay you all for it? The movie has 0 story. Pair of good action sequences and 3 flat characters with almost 0 context. The story is finished. Please next timeI wonder how the movie managed to get so many good reviews. Did the US military pay you all for it? The movie has 0 story. Pair of good action sequences and 3 flat characters with almost 0 context. The story is finished. Please next time please also pay me then I also write a 10 point review.… Expand

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5

mohamad91hkAug 15, 2019

I don't know why all critics reviews are positive!? The movie is so slow, at some moments you just feel bored and waiting for the end, three long, tense bomb-defusing scenes that don't vary much.

In addition, there is no backstory of anyI don't know why all critics reviews are positive!? The movie is so slow, at some moments you just feel bored and waiting for the end, three long, tense bomb-defusing scenes that don't vary much.

In addition, there is no backstory of any character so you can connect with it, just you can see fearless bomb-disposal specialist (Jeremy Renner) with his team (Anthony Mackie & Brian Geraghty) how they spend their day in the wartime. I can't ignore the solid performance by Jeremy Renner.

No matter what my opinion about the Iraq war, the story was little different from other war movies, but they didn't use this privilege to make something impressive, There were some suspense moments in the film, but mostly was boring.… Expand

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6

carlossolracDec 19, 2018

What's funny about this movie is that they didn't capture Bin Laden and we still ended up #winning the war and made that country as great as great can be again, and for the first time.

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6

jonslowDec 15, 2018

Overrated movie, with unrealistic characters and no real story. I wonder why this movie win OSCAR.

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6

RobertWangOct 28, 2018

The Hurt Locker is solid but it feels rather hard to believe that the main character could've survived all those years with the way he handles things, especially after what we see on the very first scene. I do like the fact that it shows howThe Hurt Locker is solid but it feels rather hard to believe that the main character could've survived all those years with the way he handles things, especially after what we see on the very first scene. I do like the fact that it shows how war can become addictive though.… Expand

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8

ErikTheCriticOct 14, 2018

It's a pretty overrated film, but "The Hurt Locker" does contain one very suspenseful sniper sequence and some intense bomb-defusing scenes, and a cast that know exactly what they are doing.

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10

KRC161412_1Aug 20, 2018

Shows humor and depression being soldier. I enjoyed a lot. Nothing excessive, well balanced movie!

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7

FilipeNetoJul 16, 2018

This film shows the danger to the anti-bomb crews in Iraq, where bomb attacks are a daily reality. The film focuses a lot on the relationships between team's soldiers and their new leader, who everyone thinks is too reckless. From there, itThis film shows the danger to the anti-bomb crews in Iraq, where bomb attacks are a daily reality. The film focuses a lot on the relationships between team's soldiers and their new leader, who everyone thinks is too reckless. From there, it invites us into the mind of this man and the way he faces his own work. The film also tries not to make judgments about war and violence. They don't appear to be criticized. The film accepts reality as it is and tells a story set in this reality. It's not a violent movie, but it's quite realistic and tough. It has punctual scenes with dead and some graphic hardness, as well as dialogues full of profanity and heavy slang, but this has fit perfectly in this type of film. It has several intense scenes full of suspense, able to leave the public with difficulty to breathe, where they gather almost all the ingredients common to other war movies, but what makes this film more valuable and different is and psychological load that it has, combined to its ideological neutrality. Kathryn Bigelow has done a great job directing and has responsibility for the final product's quality. Of the cast I highlight Jeremy Renner and Anthony Mackie, who were excellent apart and brilliant when they split the screen. Ralph Fiennes also appears but is almost a cameo. I also liked cinematography, full of warm colors and a somewhat misty and very subtle effect, as if there were constant dust in the air. It contributes a lot, in conjunction with the sets, environment and costumes, to take public to the Middle East.… Expand

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8

TchaikovskyFeb 4, 2018

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I believe its a very good film about how real and cruel its every war. concretlly the war of Iraq.… Expand

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9

Dragonfly44Nov 27, 2017

A masterpiece held together by emotional scenes, strong acting and glorious action sequences. Definitely worth the watch and I would even go so far to say it’s sort of a hidden gem.

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3

XaoticFeb 17, 2017

This movie is not only blatantly inaccurate for a war movie, for a work of fiction it is still scripted and directed very poorly. How this movie became hyped by the press is beyond my understanding.

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10

virtualPresenceJul 18, 2016

Im truly interested into watching a quality films only. And I think I developed a sense of quality film production. This is the one. Totally satisfied with actors and the writing. The only thing which sucks is -> the film like this should beIm truly interested into watching a quality films only. And I think I developed a sense of quality film production. This is the one. Totally satisfied with actors and the writing. The only thing which sucks is -> the film like this should be longer for 1 hour more like 3.5 hours of "highly realistic film" which suck my attention for the whole film into it and when it was done I wanted more but. If you want highly relistic film and anter into film to forget eistence than action drama hurt locker is for you. A MUST TO SEE.... very cool. actors does not feel to act at all ut so real....… Expand

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0

John154Jun 24, 2016

This movie came out while i was in Afghanistan hunting IEDs. This hero filled war porn does not reflect what we did and makes a mockery of the teams of men who worked as professional, cohesive units to do this very difficult job that theThis movie came out while i was in Afghanistan hunting IEDs. This hero filled war porn does not reflect what we did and makes a mockery of the teams of men who worked as professional, cohesive units to do this very difficult job that the cowboy protagonist does all my himself while in a constant state of rebellion and with total neglect for the intricacies of army teamwork. My mother saw this film it put all sorts of new dread into her for my safety. That pissed me off too. Clearly I'm biased and maybe if I were a civilian I might like this sort of film but from this Vet's perspective Hurker Locker gets two raging thumbs down.… Expand

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9

EpicLadySpongeApr 19, 2016

Once again, I feel disappointed with users. The Hurt Locker will make you keep on loving and loving because of its side-to-side story that just can't move anywhere from the locker.

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8

gloriouspotatoFeb 4, 2016

As a character study, the film does a pretty decent job at exploring the psychological impact of war. Following a three man EOD team, there's no plot in the traditional sense, but we see how the group dynamics unfold and the eventualAs a character study, the film does a pretty decent job at exploring the psychological impact of war. Following a three man EOD team, there's no plot in the traditional sense, but we see how the group dynamics unfold and the eventual revealing of all their own hurts that were previously locked away. For example, William James' addiction to danger and inability to enjoy civilian life, and Sanborn's fear of dying unloved with no family to remember him by. This helps add a layer of complexity that subverts the idea of the unfazed and glorified soldier. This isn't anything new, but I thought it was an interesting character portrayal nonetheless. The film's erratic cinematography and effective use of sound also do a good job at heightening the tension and paranoia during particular scenes.

As a realistic portrayal of war however, I say this is where things start to fall apart. I understand that there have to be some constraints in order to get the right atmosphere and drama, but the movie frames itself as one that is supposedly realistic and ends up failing this on many fronts, mainly the ridiculous military conduct of certain characters that even average moviegoers with no army experience will recognize immediately. This somewhat detracts from the authenticity and validity of whatever message the film was trying to establish.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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8

AquaMorphJan 25, 2016

This movie was intense from beginning to end. However, it's the only film I've watched that I have loved and hated the cinametagraphy at the same time. Well placed and with fantastic directing one of the better was movies ever made. I'm veryThis movie was intense from beginning to end. However, it's the only film I've watched that I have loved and hated the cinametagraphy at the same time. Well placed and with fantastic directing one of the better was movies ever made. I'm very glad this won Best Picture.… Expand

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10

Tss5078Nov 28, 2015

I have never really enjoyed war films. I am by no means a pacifist, but to me all the stories seem to be the same, and until now, I've been uninterested. It wasn't until viewing the Academy's best picture of 2010, The Hurt Locker, that II have never really enjoyed war films. I am by no means a pacifist, but to me all the stories seem to be the same, and until now, I've been uninterested. It wasn't until viewing the Academy's best picture of 2010, The Hurt Locker, that I started to see things differently. In these films, it's not so much the story line that matters, but rather the characters that are featured in the film. The description of The Hurt Locker is just as bland as any other war picture, the story of a unit in Iraq that is responsible for disarming explosives. What makes this film so unique and made it the best film of 2010 was William James, played remarkably well by Jeremy Renner. Renner is known as an action star, so when I saw him nominated for best actor, I couldn't believe it. The truth is Renner's performance in this film was outstanding, because for once, he simply played himself. Renner may have been portraying a Sargent in Iraq, but the personality was his own. Director, Kathryn Bigelow, has become known for letting actors be themselves in developing their characters personalities, to the point where even some of the dialogue was in the spur of the moment. The Hurt Locker is a powerful film, with remarkable events and heartbreaking moments, but it's the films personality that is larger than life. I enjoyed every second of this film and it was truly the best choice the Academy could have made for best picture.… Expand

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10

Regn752Oct 24, 2015

First of all, this movie is not 100% realistic. If you want that, go watch a documentary or war footage. This was still produced by Hollywood, but I guarantee it is the most realistic war movie Hollywood has produced in a long time.

ThisFirst of all, this movie is not 100% realistic. If you want that, go watch a documentary or war footage. This was still produced by Hollywood, but I guarantee it is the most realistic war movie Hollywood has produced in a long time.

This movie is not focused on all out combat action scenes. It focuses on the very real new threat that was IED's (Improvised explosive devices). The movie centers on a small EOD squad, having lost one of their specialists, a replacement is called in and follows the squad through their routine drama and suspense of disarming bombs that can very well kill you.

An absolute much watch for military enthusiasts.… Expand

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10

hanneguacamoleJun 29, 2015

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The Hurt Locker isn't about war, per se. I personally am not a fan of violence and for that reason tend to shy away from these types of movies as well as knowing a lot about combat, like was happening here. But I still found myself sitting at the edge of my seat (or bed) in anticipation.

This movie's strong point was easily the suspense. A wise man once said that he'd rather have a bomb under the table and not explode, than have the whole room blow up. These bombs did blow up, but I think Bigelow certainly took a piece of advice from Alfred Hitchock here, and props to her! Without suspense, it's just another war movie. The Hurt Locker is so much more. It's about James's need – and other's (Sanborn & Eldridge's) aversion – to being out there. It contemplates our differences and puts them in an environment where these differences shine through and lives are risked, and lost, daily.

Everything that we have been shown previously goes against James's demeanor, and he almost defies the odds to still be alive. The Superman of diffusing bombs in Iraq. Yet we see how one kid has the potential to pull at his heartstrings which is something that we learn his own kid even can't do to make him stay away. Because the rush of adrenaline and the need to risk his life is the only thing he loves anymore. It's his life, simple as that.

"This box is full of stuff that almost killed me." I'll never understand the way he puts his life on the line, but I'm not William James. Movies let us get to know people we'll never meet and take us to places we'll never be. I really can't think of a better example of a movie that fully encompasses that sentiment. We're transported. We're there. We see the fear and the danger and we're enthralled by what makes Sergeant First Class William James tick, because that thing is different for all of us.… Expand

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9

Meth-dudeMay 31, 2015

This is a truly powerful film.That job is pretty though and the movie shows it perfectly even if the movie is inaccurate with this job.With a very good script,an original idea,convincing characters and very good acting,The Hurt Locker is anThis is a truly powerful film.That job is pretty though and the movie shows it perfectly even if the movie is inaccurate with this job.With a very good script,an original idea,convincing characters and very good acting,The Hurt Locker is an awesome movie.… Expand

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9

CaesaroctopusMay 2, 2015

An excellent movie. Well-made and well acted, The Hurt Locker is an evocative and poignant picture of the War in Iraq and its soldiers. Jeremy Renner's character in particular is one of the most interesting characters in a war movie to date:An excellent movie. Well-made and well acted, The Hurt Locker is an evocative and poignant picture of the War in Iraq and its soldiers. Jeremy Renner's character in particular is one of the most interesting characters in a war movie to date: A Cavalier and Good-Natured Cowboy in an IED suit.… Expand

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1

Arthur_S_PoeFeb 11, 2015

I cannot deny that 'The Hurt Locker' has a very specific power that does, in a way, attract people to it. It is a very boldly done war film about all the individual consequences of a war, something that has not been a standard topic of theI cannot deny that 'The Hurt Locker' has a very specific power that does, in a way, attract people to it. It is a very boldly done war film about all the individual consequences of a war, something that has not been a standard topic of the genre. Yet, I was bitterly disappointed by it all, as it proved to be a disgustingly blatant work of American propaganda, whereby their political aggression is presented as a burden to those that willingly participated it. Who the f**k cares about what the war did to someone who, under the pretext of 'liberalization and democracy', behaved like a bloody dictator? I was utterly disappointed by all the awards the movie gained and I must say that the critical universal acclaim somehow escapes me, as I don't see any relevant acclaim that should be attributed to the movie. It is slow, effectively boring and dull, one-sided and biased and it actually borders some propaganda work, but without the chauvinistic subtext. But, yes, the glorification of the American Soldier (just to make it clear - America is not the problem here, it is the glorification of a phenomenon that should be condemned and I would say the exact same things if the film was about Congo, Cambodia, Britain or Guatemala) is there and it is absolutely sickening (I actually fell asleep for 20 minutes and when I woke up I concluded that I haven't missed a thing - enough said).

I detested Jeremy Renner after seeing the movie and I was glad he lost the Oscar that year. In time, my opinion of him did improve, but the role was disastrous. It wasn't bad, quite the contrary, but the character itself, his portrayal and all of that combined with the movie itself was dreadful.

So, 'The Hurt Locker', albeit a well designed war film, offers little to nothing of the potential it has, becoming thus a propaganda work and the glorification of a war-raging policy that should be forgotten within the history books and not glorified on screen.… Expand

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9

drlowdonJan 23, 2015

When Sergeant James takes over a highly trained bomb disposal team stationed in Iraq, he surprises his team with his reckless and dangerous methods. As the battle continues all around them the team attempt to curb their new leader before hisWhen Sergeant James takes over a highly trained bomb disposal team stationed in Iraq, he surprises his team with his reckless and dangerous methods. As the battle continues all around them the team attempt to curb their new leader before his actions have serious consequences for everyone.

With explosives everywhere and every civilian a potential enemy The Hurt Locker brilliantly portrays the intense nature of working and living in war torn territory. The movie is about far more than just men blowing things up however and as the movie unfolds we learn about the motivations of each of the men involved giving us a fascinating insight into their world.

With brilliant performances all round The Hurt Locker is one of the best war movies ever made.… Expand

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1

Sebe2012Jan 18, 2015

It is an absolutely horrible , one sided movie that brings nothing new to the white screen . Oscar winning ? It is rather embarrassing . I would expect from bigelow something brave and innovative. I wonder we Hollywood will be brave enough toIt is an absolutely horrible , one sided movie that brings nothing new to the white screen . Oscar winning ? It is rather embarrassing . I would expect from bigelow something brave and innovative. I wonder we Hollywood will be brave enough to the Iraq war and face with reality .… Expand

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10

MarkT2014Jan 5, 2015

It's rare to find a realistic intelligent film. This is one of them.
Unbelievable acting in the last scene. It was truly powerful.
It shows the true color of terrorism in the Middle East, and pretty much rips apart all the conspiracyIt's rare to find a realistic intelligent film. This is one of them.
Unbelievable acting in the last scene. It was truly powerful.

It shows the true color of terrorism in the Middle East, and pretty much rips apart all the conspiracy theories and international media bias against U.S. military.

I give this film 10 with full respect.… Expand

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10

ChazeManNov 9, 2014

Every single negative review I see on this site is due to "inaccuracy". Film is art ladies and gentleman, not reality. No matter the subject matter, any and all disbelief should be suspended when watching film. This is a classic mistake ofEvery single negative review I see on this site is due to "inaccuracy". Film is art ladies and gentleman, not reality. No matter the subject matter, any and all disbelief should be suspended when watching film. This is a classic mistake of many movie goer who expects realism. Look at elements and themes within a film, and stop tallying up real life impossibilities. This film is a masterful work of art, thematically and emotionally. There is a reason for the 94 meta score on this site, it does not lie. The film is great.… Expand

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9

talisencrwOct 10, 2014

I enjoyed Bigelow's film very much--it's a very accurate depiction of the unique problems both of the war in the Middle East and that soldiers of any war face--that fighting and surviving is all they know, to the deficit of everything else. II enjoyed Bigelow's film very much--it's a very accurate depiction of the unique problems both of the war in the Middle East and that soldiers of any war face--that fighting and surviving is all they know, to the deficit of everything else. I understand why it was shot the way that it was, though handheld, jerky movement isn't my cup of tea. This film gets a lot of hate because it beat out Avatar at the awards ceremonies. Though it's a very good film and deserving of great recognition, I don't think it's the best that Bigelow can do. I'm curious what she's going to try next.… Expand

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3

beingryanjudeAug 24, 2014

I understand the importance of creating heroes surrounding the American military; however, I found this depiction overly run-of-the-mill. Sure, Jeremy Renner gives a fine performance--but I'm left missing some much needed heart.

2 of 5 users found this helpful23

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0

dsj556Mar 7, 2014

Please for anyone watching this move it is not at all accurate. EOD rarely disarms bombs as it is too dangerous. NCO's don't punch superiors in the face, you certainly would never find a SFC getting hammered drunk or sneaking off the fob byPlease for anyone watching this move it is not at all accurate. EOD rarely disarms bombs as it is too dangerous. NCO's don't punch superiors in the face, you certainly would never find a SFC getting hammered drunk or sneaking off the fob by himself to interrogate someone, it is simply false. These are huge falsehoods that completely turn the move into 100% fiction beyond the fact that the war in Iraq actually happened. These would be the kinds of stories you would hear from an EOD private who was in the Green Zone for 12 months. Anyone else who ever set foot in the middle east can tell you what a complete load of BS this movie really is.

People may think that even an inaccurate war movie is better than none but that is simply not the case. This movie is an insult to everyone who spent even one second in Iraq and I am still amazed that it actually won an Oscar. That is just a travesty.… Expand

7 of 9 users found this helpful72

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9

JpJuarioJan 30, 2014

''Excellent.'' ''Brilliant!'' ''Full of Suspense and Intensity.'' '' An Absolute Knockout! The first 12 mins will mess-up your life. One of the Best Films of the decade. The Best Action film I've seen in year's. The Actors are winning. The''Excellent.'' ''Brilliant!'' ''Full of Suspense and Intensity.'' '' An Absolute Knockout! The first 12 mins will mess-up your life. One of the Best Films of the decade. The Best Action film I've seen in year's. The Actors are winning. The Film editing is brilliant. The Best Action-'Thriller ever made! Renner, Mackie and Gerahty were Terrific.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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10

mailinhJan 7, 2014

Usually I don't really enjoy war films, but this one is fantastic. I've never seen a movie of this genre which is as genuine and gripping as "The Hurt Locker" with stunning actors and a touching story. Kathryn Bigelow's film leaves me stoked behind.

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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4

Jack97Jan 1, 2014

Jeremy Renner is great in his role, but for me the film didn't live up to my expectations due to its length and not having as much action as the trailer showed.

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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8

cmykDec 23, 2013

Though it seems its inaccuracy and marketing hooks have struck a chord with a few, I found The Hurt Locker to be an enjoyable film. Ironically, it gives you a nice break from the typical explosion-after-explosion-war-action flick despite itThough it seems its inaccuracy and marketing hooks have struck a chord with a few, I found The Hurt Locker to be an enjoyable film. Ironically, it gives you a nice break from the typical explosion-after-explosion-war-action flick despite it focusing on EOD, with a slower pace and likable characters. It holds just enough tension without crossing over into tedium, and uses it to its advantage to progress the story.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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7

RayzorMooseNov 16, 2013

The Hurt Locker is spectacularly suspenseful.
The movie is filled with good acting especially from Jeremy Renner and good directing. The story is exceptionally well written, and despite being a little slow, the Hurt Locker still achieves success.

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

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5

contractNov 6, 2013

Entertaining, yet not anywhere near to reality. You wouldn't go off base by yourself without your gear. You wouldn't do half of the things they they did in this movie.

And action movie this is, an accurate one it is not. The portrayal ofEntertaining, yet not anywhere near to reality. You wouldn't go off base by yourself without your gear. You wouldn't do half of the things they they did in this movie.

And action movie this is, an accurate one it is not. The portrayal of pstd was abysmal at best, and they way they wrote it off was sickening.… Expand

5 of 8 users found this helpful53

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8

OfficialNov 4, 2013

Personally, I don't feel that "The Hurt Locker" deserved all those Oscar awards and that it's slightly overrated but I don't deny that it's a really damn good film. It's tense, complex, violent and action-packed. The story is well planned andPersonally, I don't feel that "The Hurt Locker" deserved all those Oscar awards and that it's slightly overrated but I don't deny that it's a really damn good film. It's tense, complex, violent and action-packed. The story is well planned and written and the acting is fabulous.… Expand

3 of 5 users found this helpful32

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4

RoeylSep 2, 2013

This movie works only because it appears so real, it's the source of the suspense, the action, the atmosphere, characters, plot... etc. This is also why it fails. While it may be more accurate than many other war movies, this one was built onThis movie works only because it appears so real, it's the source of the suspense, the action, the atmosphere, characters, plot... etc. This is also why it fails. While it may be more accurate than many other war movies, this one was built on realism. However an informed viewer will note that the movie does not portray well the soldiers' lives and the Iraq war. Many bomb squad members said so themselves, including the ones that were interviewed by the movie makers. All the portrayed military operations are inaccurate. This movie is a lie. However can it still be viewed as a regular war action movie? I'm afraid not. Without the sense of reality the movie loses all interest. To conclude, not only does this movie fail at what it sells for, which is a close enough portrayal of wartime, it also fails as an action movie. The only praise I can give is the amazing work achieved by the actors. You will enjoy this movie though if you do not know much about the Iraq war, like most Americans unfortunately.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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5

SpangleJul 31, 2013

It was honestly nothing more than ok. The acting was really good and the directing was good, but at the end of the day, I'm not entirely sure what the plot was (yes, he disarms bombs, but it leads to nothing), which is an obvious turn off andIt was honestly nothing more than ok. The acting was really good and the directing was good, but at the end of the day, I'm not entirely sure what the plot was (yes, he disarms bombs, but it leads to nothing), which is an obvious turn off and it's honestly really slow at times. Unsure how this won an Oscar.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

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7

Trev29Jul 5, 2013

It is certainly an attention grabber the moment the movie begins, but then it seems to just be repeating the same sequences over and over until it is a little boring. Editing was great along with the script. Overpraised, but it still a goodIt is certainly an attention grabber the moment the movie begins, but then it seems to just be repeating the same sequences over and over until it is a little boring. Editing was great along with the script. Overpraised, but it still a good movie that has a lot of great qualities.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

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2

KivaJun 9, 2013

I really didn't like this movie. it obviously didn't deserve an Oscar as Avatar was nominated this year...
What is the point of that movie? War is great? America f**k yeah? I dont know but I think 94/100 is too much as well as 7.1/10 II really didn't like this movie. it obviously didn't deserve an Oscar as Avatar was nominated this year...
What is the point of that movie? War is great? America f**k yeah? I dont know but I think 94/100 is too much as well as 7.1/10 I watched that film with good friends and all of them didn't like it. It was truly unacceptable as a movie. Thumbs down… Expand

2 of 6 users found this helpful24

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8

RAEDALSDIMay 19, 2013

Despite the high degree i gave to the film, but the film was a disappointment, think it's not worth to win the Oscar for best film, there are no any surprises in the film at all, and there are some stupid behaviors of the film mainDespite the high degree i gave to the film, but the film was a disappointment, think it's not worth to win the Oscar for best film, there are no any surprises in the film at all, and there are some stupid behaviors of the film main character Jeremy Renner and also the film pictures the Iraqi people are very weak and I am an Iraqi I do not deny that, but say it was exaggerated, but what I liked most in the film is the realism in the presentation of the facts, And location of the filming that is very similar to the Iraqi environment despite the fact that the film images in Jordan… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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4

G_Thomas_BostonApr 25, 2013

This is a movie about bombs. Lots of bombs. Desert bombs.

The End. That's pretty much it. Oh sure, a few other things happened. You wanna hear about 'em? OK. I'll provide you with a little more, oh faithful reader. I'm still not sureThis is a movie about bombs. Lots of bombs. Desert bombs.

The End.

That's pretty much it. Oh sure, a few other things happened. You wanna hear about 'em? OK. I'll provide you with a little more, oh faithful reader.

I'm still not sure what the title The Hurt Locker refers to. It's not about well-secured first aid kits, nor is it about gymnasium facilities for actors William, John, or even Mary Beth.

This celluloid endeavor was directed by Kathryn Bigelow; the deft hand behind such legendary screen classics as Point Break and Blue Steel. It stars Jeremy Renner as Staff Sergeant William James, an expert at diffusing bombs. Joining him on the Explosivity Disposaling Unit are Sergeant JT Sanborn (Anthony Mackie), and Owen Eldrige (Brian Geraghty)

Renner has been nominated for an Academy Award for his performance. I'm not sure why this is. The supporting performances most notably Mackie's were, in my opinion, superior. All Renner did was act "cool". Oh, so "cool". Desert "cool". But if looking "cool" is the only criterion used for award recognition, then David Caruso should be nominated for a Nobel Prize.

The film centers mostly on the antics of Sergeant James. James loves dismantling things that can blow you into a zillion pieces. He'd rather do that than live a peaceful life in a nice home with his beautiful wife. We're shown some of his domestic life, but the movie doesn't show the good stuff. No. Instead we see him cleaning out the eavestrough of his house.

Now I've cleaned out a few roof gutters in my time, but the one depicted here has to be the gunkiest gutter in the history of home maintenance. And he's cleaning it out with his bare hand!!! C'mon, use a scoop, or a trowel, or a toy shovel, a stick, a shoe, anything. I'd rather diffuse bombs in Iraq than have to clean out that gutter in that fashion.

Another scene worth mentioning shows the guys after getting a little snockered engaging in an activity where good judgment and mental acuity would be a distinct disadvantage. The "game" involves taking turns hitting each other as hard as possible in the stomach. My wife, while watching this powerful and touching scene, turned to me and asked, "Why do men do those kind of things?"

You know, we men just have to chuckle when women ask us such questions. It was obvious to me, but I patiently explained it to her that this was a gesture of endearment. Women hug. Men try to smash the bejabers out of each other. It's their way of saying, "You're OK in my book." And nothing says it better than a ruptured spleen.

A word of warning here to those prone to seasickness: the camerawork in this film is of that hand-held style that so many directors are wont to use these days. I suppose they feel it gives their movies that gritty, realistic, documentary look which is ironic, since documentary filmmakers rarely use the technique anymore. Besides, if it's supposed to look realistic, then why don't I see the real world that way through my eyes? Although if I did, I'd be making an appointment and pronto with an ophthalmologist or a brain surgeon.

If you have a tough time watching this film due to that camera style, then avoid The Bourne Ultimatum at all costs. You would not survive. Its visuals are worse than any bone-jarring experience you could imagine

I once took a ride on a gigantically tall roller coaster. Its peak disappeared into the clouds. It was called the Red Ripper, or the Brown Streak, or the Green Puker something like that. Anyway, all I know is that I was smiling after that ride. I wasn't smiling after The Bourne Ultimatum.

In closing, I should say that even though I had some reservations about renting the DVD of The Hurt Locker, I was able to take something positive from it a lesson.

The lesson learned is, pay attention to your reservations.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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0

uxoguy05Feb 12, 2013

all my EOD friends thing this movie is the best comedy scifi they've ever seen. complete garbage, oscar winning my ass. I know people complain that it's a movie not a documentry, but come on you have to stick to reality at least a little bit.all my EOD friends thing this movie is the best comedy scifi they've ever seen. complete garbage, oscar winning my ass. I know people complain that it's a movie not a documentry, but come on you have to stick to reality at least a little bit. the scene where he pulls all those heavy artillary pieces out of the ground by the det cord and blasting caps... come on was he superman? each one of those wieghs at least 50 pounds. This movie was "based" off of a soldiers EOD experience, if he had done half of what he said he did in the movie he'd still be jail. this is just another movie made to get an Oscar, nothing more… Expand

6 of 8 users found this helpful62

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6

Tupe_NFeb 8, 2013

At its best, Hurt Locker totally captivates the feeling of being there alongside Jeremy Renner and defusing the bomb rigged to explode. But sadly if you look past it's peaks moments, you find confusing scenes and poor acting. As an European,At its best, Hurt Locker totally captivates the feeling of being there alongside Jeremy Renner and defusing the bomb rigged to explode. But sadly if you look past it's peaks moments, you find confusing scenes and poor acting. As an European, Hurt Locker doesn't really give you that much content or make you attached to the characters. I had absolutely no feelings towards Sergeant James (Jeremy Renner) and his crew, and because of this the tension about the bomb exploding or not was weak. It doesn't help at all that the characters have almost no background, especially the lead character was left blank. There are some great scenes like the sniping on the desert and defusing of the car bomb. but to balance it out there are some odd ones like the scene in which they have a drunken brawl in the barracks. Also the plot is a confusing mess of highlights, that doesn't seem to start or end. The shots are beautiful and sharp, and the scenes are very real-like. A lot of the credit for the movies success goes to the film editing and cinematography departments. Somehow i still feel the movie is widely overrated, and doesn't really bring anything new or make the existing better. I think this is a national matter and Americans do enjoy this film more than us Europeans do, the subject of Iraq war is somehow reluctant to us, and bonding with the EOD-squad in two hours is very hard.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

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7

seancriswellJan 21, 2013

A well crafted, well acted, tense war movie. The book ends of this movie are about as entertaining as a film can be. My problem with this movie comes in the middle third. There are some things at play here that took me out of the filmA well crafted, well acted, tense war movie. The book ends of this movie are about as entertaining as a film can be. My problem with this movie comes in the middle third. There are some things at play here that took me out of the film completely and seem very out of place with the rest of the movie. Overall this is a very strong film.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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10

WiesyJan 20, 2013

This is a very good movie about the Iraq war. I like Jeremy Renner a lot. the cast is very good and the story is awesome. I like this movie a lot. Best movie of 2009

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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3

JimInNashvilleJan 20, 2013

"The Hurt Locker" is, at times, very gritty and gripping entertainment. Clearly, it caught the imagination of the Hollywood Limousine Liberal reviewing establishment, who gave it very high marks and ceded it a number of significant awards."The Hurt Locker" is, at times, very gritty and gripping entertainment. Clearly, it caught the imagination of the Hollywood Limousine Liberal reviewing establishment, who gave it very high marks and ceded it a number of significant awards. But how good is the movie? Not really that good. In particular, the movie presents a very destructive and inaccurate portrayal of what soldiers are really like. Nobody as reckless and irresponsible as the main character would last ten minutes in a special weapons unit of any kind, let alone one involved in demolition work. The fact that so many Hollywood reviewers accepted such a ridiculously inaccurate portrayal establishes that this kind of portrayal is currently Politically Correct. It is what Hollywood wants to believe soldiers are really like. A true work of art worthy of a best picture award would find the incredible drama present in the lives of our soldiers' *as they truly live them*. Besides being inaccurate, the movie is also, in places, simply distasteful. In constructing my final rating, I penalized it on that score.… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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5

wisertimeJan 16, 2013

Overrated movie, with unrealistic characters and no real story. Too much stupid Bravado and machismo. I am reviewing this because Zero Dark Thirty is out and while Katherine Bigelow is sexy, she only got to be a director, because she wasOverrated movie, with unrealistic characters and no real story. Too much stupid Bravado and machismo. I am reviewing this because Zero Dark Thirty is out and while Katherine Bigelow is sexy, she only got to be a director, because she was married To James Cameron. Nepotism. I have no interest in seeing more fictional US military drama. I'll pass. Hurt locker was not that good.… Expand

5 of 7 users found this helpful52

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10

StevenFJan 5, 2013

In a few short moments...everything will change, in this instance, for all war films to come.
The Hurt Locker clutched to this notion and never wained it's grasp through every 130+ minutes of this movie.
Within minutes of this dramaticIn a few short moments...everything will change, in this instance, for all war films to come.
The Hurt Locker clutched to this notion and never wained it's grasp through every 130+ minutes of this movie.
Within minutes of this dramatic realisation beginning, my heart is beating to the point of me believing "I could just reach over and let Guy Pearce know whats going on", my point to this is that director Kathryn Bigelow (Point break) has created this epic yet simple, unprecedented, sometimes frightening, drama/war film that shows then relatively unknown actors, portraying just more numbers on a document sent on 365 day rotation in Iraq, in particular an EOD squad, just what can happen in a regular day in war.
This film deals with the emotional barriers that soldiers face in the line of duty, the difficulties of 'routine' life but most of all, it deals with everlasting effect of what being a soldier does to not just your physical well-being, but your mind.
After an explosive opening, we see Sergeant First Class William James (Jeremy Renner), team leader of the specialised EOD unit also consisting of Sergeant Sandborn (Anthony Mackie) and Specialist Owen Eldridge (Brian Geraghty). The two soldiers see their leader as a reckless redneck due to his lack of safety and disregard for the rules when it comes to a POA on disposing bombs.
Jeremy Renner carries this film to greater heights than one could possibly have hoped for. As the film progresses we watch the team unravel and get an insight into the day to day activities, or lives of these embedded heroes, a dramatisation, yes, but one so close to the heart it could throw a juggernaut suit on you and take the dreaded steps in the searing sun.
I can't say much more because a film like this needs to be seen and not read about, a masterpiece in every aspect, beautiful, frightening, realism taken to new heights and pushing boundaries like no other, easily in contention for one of the best films in the past decade.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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0

ItchyDec 11, 2012

I realize this review is coming a little late but I see the same director is now birthing another one of her 'realistic' films about war (Zero Dark Thirty). I love hard hitting action films as much as I HATE political propaganda and that isI realize this review is coming a little late but I see the same director is now birthing another one of her 'realistic' films about war (Zero Dark Thirty). I love hard hitting action films as much as I HATE political propaganda and that is what the Hurt Locker is. I was completely bored with the "crazy-American-cowboy standing-alone -against-all-the-whimps" theme. Maybe this film director/writer should join up and see what a real war feels like.… Expand

3 of 6 users found this helpful33

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10

YoursTrulyNov 12, 2012

Oh my God! One of the most perfect movies I've ever known. You could probably split this thing in half, and make two great works of cinema. There is so much suspense and drama packed into each and every beautifully shot scene that it almostOh my God! One of the most perfect movies I've ever known. You could probably split this thing in half, and make two great works of cinema. There is so much suspense and drama packed into each and every beautifully shot scene that it almost calls forth the sweat on your brow. I ventured further onto the edge of my seat than I knew was humanly possible. When these soldiers are attempting to diffuse mysterious explosives, it almost feels like your well-being is in the balance as well. This long, exhilarating piece is just pumping at the edges with pounds upon pounds of heart-racing, pipe-bursting tension. The Hurt Locker is slow, punishing and weighs down upon you with a pressure that you don't want to stop. Masterful cinematography, directing, acting and vision. Everything is flawlessly clear both visually and intellectually. At no point did I find myself asking about the plot or wondering why something happened. It carries the mark of a great movie which is, you come close to forgetting that it is a movie at all. It becomes real. It leaves you utterly and hopelessly captivated. This was a film made with clarity, vigilance and purpose. So damn good I can't stand it. One for the ages.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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8

imthenoobOct 25, 2012

I personally think it's incredibly underrated by users. Hurt Locker was a well done film. It was interesting to watch, well acted, and manage to suck you in all at the same time. Definently worth watching imo.

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

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8

ROHITBATMANOct 11, 2012

: This movie told that war is a terrible place to live and when go in so deep in the war it becomes a drug and you don

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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9

HalfwelshmanAug 28, 2012

The Hurt Locker is no ordinary war film. In fact, setting aside the iconography and setting of the Iraq war, it's scarcely a war film at all. Rather than making an explicit judgement about the Iraq War, the film instead shifts focus to peopleThe Hurt Locker is no ordinary war film. In fact, setting aside the iconography and setting of the Iraq war, it's scarcely a war film at all. Rather than making an explicit judgement about the Iraq War, the film instead shifts focus to people and relationships, and how a single moment can change your life forever, or suddenly end it. The best, and most thought provoking scene in the film is one of relative calm, when EOD Seargeant Will James (Jeremy Renner) is on leave from active duty, and looks simply lost while wandering down the cereal isle of an American supermarket. Renner is excellent as James, who is essentially an adrenaline junkie, an addict to thrills and near death experiences, and who is obsessed with getting his next fix. Anthony Mackie and Brian Geraghty also impress as James' squad-mates, a by-the-book straight man to James' impulsive maverick leader and a jittery and inexperienced young specialist respectively. Guy Pierce and Ralph Fiennes are good as always in minor but quite pivotal roles. The characters are layered and interesting, the expertly paced, sweat-inducing bomb disposal scenes smartly replace the standard running-and-gunning battles found in almost all other war films (there's only one straight gunfight, and even that is drawn-out and minimalistic) and Mark Boal's script is believable and dramatically affecting. I'm quite ashamed to admit that this is the only one of Kathryn Bigelow's films I've seen, but she's undeniably talented behind the camera, grounded and naturalistic in her style (other than using a little well-executed slow-motion for the biggest set pieces) and most pleasingly, unlike her ex-husband Mr Moneybags Cameron, she doesn't yet appear to have been consumed by her own hype. The Hurt Locker is a masterful piece of dramatic storytelling, an excellent analysis of the driving forces of humanity, and one of the cleverest examinations of the impact of war to ever grace the silver screen. It's a crime that no woman before Bigelow has won the Best Picture Academy Award, but The Hurt Locker sets a fine example as the first film to break this trend, and it didn't need in excess of $200,000,000 to do it.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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8

dev92Aug 25, 2012

Finally a war film about the middle east that doesn't try to be too intelligent yet is seemingly aimed at intelligent people. A wonderful film which was hands down better than Avatar though I did think that other films were overlooked forFinally a war film about the middle east that doesn't try to be too intelligent yet is seemingly aimed at intelligent people. A wonderful film which was hands down better than Avatar though I did think that other films were overlooked for Best Picture. Jeremy Renner evolved in this film from supporting actor in an action film to a fantastic lead in a serious film. This was a huge turning point within his career.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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7

Captain_KirkAug 16, 2012

I found myself liking the first half of the film a lot, but when the film hits the unnecessarily long sniper sequence, it all starts to go down hill. I never really found the 2nd half to be as compelling as the first half, and I started toI found myself liking the first half of the film a lot, but when the film hits the unnecessarily long sniper sequence, it all starts to go down hill. I never really found the 2nd half to be as compelling as the first half, and I started to care less and less with where the plot was going. In the end, The Hurt Locker is a decent, but severely over-rated movie.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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10

Connor_MonteithAug 3, 2012

An intelligent movie that intrigues and excites. It is dramatic, tense and the odd bit humorous. This is one of the few films that I would actually call a masterpiece

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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10

PennerAug 1, 2012

This is a great movie and one of the best war films I ever watched. The only thing that I didn't like was the use of the shaky camera, but it doesn't really distract from actually telling the story. Personally, I just don't like shaky cameraThis is a great movie and one of the best war films I ever watched. The only thing that I didn't like was the use of the shaky camera, but it doesn't really distract from actually telling the story. Personally, I just don't like shaky camera but most of the time it was used in this film was from the main characters' perspective (you got a glimpse of what they saw). When I actually did see the shaky camera it didn't really physically make me nauseated but it did annoyed me.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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10

Andy86Jul 4, 2012

Great movie! Unlike other war movies about recent conflicts such as Jarhead, this movie is actually entertaining, with some of the best tension filled scenes you will see. And the performance by Jeremy Renner in the lead role is fantastic. IGreat movie! Unlike other war movies about recent conflicts such as Jarhead, this movie is actually entertaining, with some of the best tension filled scenes you will see. And the performance by Jeremy Renner in the lead role is fantastic. I understand that many parts of the movie are "unrealistic", as many people have complained about, but 100% of fictional movies are unrealistic. They have spice up aspects of life to make the film entertaining. I don't believe they mean any disrespect to those in uniform. They're merely trying to make the movie entertaining for the audience. But I understand this is a sensitive subject.… Expand

2 of 2 users found this helpful20

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7

rotkuJun 12, 2012

Good to see a war movie that is not all about shootouts and gunfire but it's not the best war movie by a long shot. The acting and directing is good and it held my interest but that's about it.

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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2

JakeSTALIN_RUSJun 10, 2012

I dont know WHAT have everyone found in this movie.Absolutely NO realism , horrible stroy about the stupid war done by American politiciand only for their own joy.Even the soldiers of US army laugh at it. You can call me stupid or somethingI dont know WHAT have everyone found in this movie.Absolutely NO realism , horrible stroy about the stupid war done by American politiciand only for their own joy.Even the soldiers of US army laugh at it. You can call me stupid or something but i think - the only reason this film has got the Oscar - is because the women.You know what i am talking about.
P.S I didnt want to hurt anyones feeling with my report - sorry if i did.… Expand

4 of 5 users found this helpful41

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1

RedfordstoJun 8, 2012

This is an excellent example of the politics of movie making. It's been said that this movie will demonstrate how the war in Iraq is remembered. This upsets me due to the lack of realism. Most noticeably, the fact that three soldiers do notThis is an excellent example of the politics of movie making. It's been said that this movie will demonstrate how the war in Iraq is remembered. This upsets me due to the lack of realism. Most noticeably, the fact that three soldiers do not run into the darkness alone to chase something that they may have seen. Nor did we risk soldiers to defuse bombs past the first months. Further, it's a rip off of the Lethal Weapon prototype. Unstable white guy paired with veteran black guy and they have over the top adventure. But the real insult? From the accounts of multiple vets, I have been told that District 9 was more realistic as far as reminding them of combat situations.… Expand

5 of 7 users found this helpful52

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9

AwesomeReviewerMay 11, 2012

The story of â

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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8

gm101May 10, 2012

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I certainly did enjoy this movie. Characters were more likeable than I thought. However, I felt the plot involving the Beckham kid wasn't resolved, and that still bugs me.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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10

raidetMay 8, 2012

Entirely typical wartime propaganda that actually very forcefully tries to paint the citizens of the country being attacked and exploited as the bad guys. Absolutely vile.

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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8

owendreamerApr 2, 2012

It's a great movie very good story the only part I didn't like is when he sees bekham again after he thinks he's dead and he disses him??? WTF?? All he wants is to do is play some soccer and he disses him? Really??? I really hated that sceneIt's a great movie very good story the only part I didn't like is when he sees bekham again after he thinks he's dead and he disses him??? WTF?? All he wants is to do is play some soccer and he disses him? Really??? I really hated that scene and for that I give it an 8 but overall good movie way better than jarhead tho.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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10

JuanoloApr 2, 2012

First off, this is a 9.75 out of 10. Near perfect. Acting is really good. Everyone give a really good job. Score is really good. Story is really great and is also intense. It's a great war tale of the US bomb squad. Plus some scenes in theFirst off, this is a 9.75 out of 10. Near perfect. Acting is really good. Everyone give a really good job. Score is really good. Story is really great and is also intense. It's a great war tale of the US bomb squad. Plus some scenes in the movie can be so intense that'll it'll keep you guessing what'll happen. Overall, this is a amazing movie. One of the greatest war movies ever. Highly, highly recommended.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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8

csw12Mar 25, 2012

The Hurter Locker might not be the best movie of the year but it certainly deserves more recongnition. A movie with such intense scenes and perfect editing that combines the drug of war within and on the ground.

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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7

JaySupertrampFeb 6, 2012

Typically for the US. Don't get me wrong this is a really good movie. But the whole time I had the feeling this is a "come on and join the army - it's great here" movie. Sure there is violence and war and bad times and everything but the wayTypically for the US. Don't get me wrong this is a really good movie. But the whole time I had the feeling this is a "come on and join the army - it's great here" movie. Sure there is violence and war and bad times and everything but the way it's shown to the audience is like a propaganda movie pro army - and that's what I ment by typically for the US. Hollywood can't produce movies without this sideeffect and that's a little bit annoying. It should be an anti-war movie but it's more like a pro-war movie. Beside that it's a really good movie!… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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7

Potter17Jan 27, 2012

I am not quite sure what exactly Kathryn Bigelow is trying to accomplish here. She makes a good work by adding tension and realism in some scenes and film itself is well-shoted, but 'The Hurt Locker' spends too much time talking about, well, nothing.

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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9

spadenxJan 19, 2012

I liked it. I thought the movie was original (which is rare these days) and well worth the watch. The acting was good, the movie was suspensful. The one flaw with it is that the climax wasnt satisfying. The entire film built up to this pointI liked it. I thought the movie was original (which is rare these days) and well worth the watch. The acting was good, the movie was suspensful. The one flaw with it is that the climax wasnt satisfying. The entire film built up to this point that just totally let me down, Even to the point where it was a bit predictable. Still, It was a good film and worth the watch.

IMO - Definently more worthy than Avatar to win the oscar for best picture.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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6

jakub02Jan 13, 2012

This is a prime example of an over-hyped movie, that in all cases did not deserve an Academy Award. The plot is incoherent - each and every scene is pretty well executed and tense, but the story just drags for too long and just does not makeThis is a prime example of an over-hyped movie, that in all cases did not deserve an Academy Award. The plot is incoherent - each and every scene is pretty well executed and tense, but the story just drags for too long and just does not make sense as a whole. The acting was pretty good though - Renner's performance as an adrenaline addict was pretty remarkable. All in all not bad, but not very good either.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

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9

tonyGreenJan 6, 2012

A war movie with real complicated protagonists. Great tension, great action but great psychological intrigue too. War is a drug, and so is the movie

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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10

Jedi_JettsonDec 31, 2011

7 out of 10 by users as of December 2011, really? It deserves better than that! Sure, it is no Saving Private Ryan but it has a VERY intelligent plot involving bombs and the war sequences are entertaining. Besides, the reconnaissance scenes7 out of 10 by users as of December 2011, really? It deserves better than that! Sure, it is no Saving Private Ryan but it has a VERY intelligent plot involving bombs and the war sequences are entertaining. Besides, the reconnaissance scenes are very unfolding and suspenseful which is the most thrilling part of the movie.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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9

DongangstarDec 31, 2011

This is a very good movie. I don't know why so many people are whining about the fact that this isn't realistic. It's a film, it's art, it's fiction, if you can't watch a movie without thinking it's ALL true, and it's all realistic, then youThis is a very good movie. I don't know why so many people are whining about the fact that this isn't realistic. It's a film, it's art, it's fiction, if you can't watch a movie without thinking it's ALL true, and it's all realistic, then you shouldn't watch any movie. Of course the protagonist takes risks which can not be the reality, but it's movie - use your imagination, this is made to entertain people, it's not a documentary, just enjoy it, don't think too much. Great acting by all actors - I believed the emotions, very well done - nice cinematography as well!… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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10

BeauDec 24, 2011

This little Kathryn Bigelow box-office failure ended up proving that it was the little engine that could. It defied the odds: it was a Summer release that was under-viewed but somehow managed enough buzz to rightfully overtake the box-officeThis little Kathryn Bigelow box-office failure ended up proving that it was the little engine that could. It defied the odds: it was a Summer release that was under-viewed but somehow managed enough buzz to rightfully overtake the box-office behemoth "Avatar" at the Academy Awards and take Best Picture. It may not be a film for the actors, but it is a film for anybody who likes to be wowed by amazing sights and amazing direction.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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8

TheTacoShackDec 6, 2011

**** awesome movie. Enough said but since there is a 150 character min I mus say random **** Blahahahahah Dick fart lolololololololllllllllllllllllllllllgfgfgf

1 of 4 users found this helpful13

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10

kingasa2020Nov 10, 2011

The Hurt Locker is an energetic, pulverizing movie that really shows you what its like for the troops on the other side of the country, and, is supremely well acted. Go see the hurt locker while you can

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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8

j30Oct 7, 2011

If I had the choice between The Hurt Locker and Avatar winning Best Picture. I probably would have gone with this movie. I watched 60 minutes segment of the real bomb squads in Afghanistan and this movie was really accurate. The movie isIf I had the choice between The Hurt Locker and Avatar winning Best Picture. I probably would have gone with this movie. I watched 60 minutes segment of the real bomb squads in Afghanistan and this movie was really accurate. The movie is really intense and has electrifying performances.… Expand

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7

grandpajoe6191Sep 10, 2011

The movie's quiet tension adds realism to the movie, making it one of the true modern war films. However, the film's noticeably lethargic pace will make you bored. In the end, "The Hurt Locker" is just a decent movie that presents real lifeThe movie's quiet tension adds realism to the movie, making it one of the true modern war films. However, the film's noticeably lethargic pace will make you bored. In the end, "The Hurt Locker" is just a decent movie that presents real life situations in modern warfare; no more, no less.… Expand

5 of 10 users found this helpful55

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1

1234Sep 7, 2011

I seriously felt like shooting my self in the head...... over Americanised **** basically all hyped up trying to say Americans are the heroes even though they have killed more of their own than they have saved (SPASTICS) XD

3 of 7 users found this helpful34

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2

StPaul1Aug 26, 2011

One of the more over-praised movies in recent memory - really just another hyperkinetic mess from Kathryn Bigelow (one of the more over-praised directors working today). The main character is a cliche, the "loose-cannon" action hero, only inOne of the more over-praised movies in recent memory - really just another hyperkinetic mess from Kathryn Bigelow (one of the more over-praised directors working today). The main character is a cliche, the "loose-cannon" action hero, only in this case there is no explanation for his risk taking. Jeremy Renner plays the character with his typical lack of range or subtlety. The only interesting actor is Ralph Fiennes as the leader of a band of mercenaries, but he's only on screen for a few minutes. Altogether a waste of time.… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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10

Seifer706Aug 14, 2011

I watched this movie a long time ago, and i jut recently came back to this review because this movie was featured in the "biggest gap between critics and fans article" so i thought I should look into it because this movie was just fantastic,I watched this movie a long time ago, and i jut recently came back to this review because this movie was featured in the "biggest gap between critics and fans article" so i thought I should look into it because this movie was just fantastic, and I'm really disappointed as to why this movie was on that article. First things first, this movie is not a patriotic movie; this movie is there to show the dehumanizing effects warfare can have upon a person, so I don't know why people can call this a "flag-waving" film when it clearly shows a man practically abandoning his own child to re-immerse himself in warfare. Second, a lot of people complain about the "Sniping" scene as being too boring or just plain unrealistic; this is not Call of Duty, okay... When it comes to sniping in real life, it can take hours to kill a specified target, there is no killstreaks and no quickscoping and if staying in the hot sun all day means that the enemy won't snipe at you back, then that's the best option to take to make sure you get out of there alive (the only thing that seems unrealistic is how an IED Unit has great skill when it comes to using an M107, that evades even me, but that's not reason enough for me to call the whole scene unreal). In truth, this is one of the greater military movies that I have ever seen (It defiantly stacks up mo movies like Apocalypse Now and Platoon, not saying its better, that's up to you, the viewers) and this movie didn't deserve to be in the previously mentioned article just because its not CoD-leveled action or just cause it doesn't have explosions every single microsecond. Definitely a movie worth watching (if you haven't already) if you are into the classical Vietnam-era films, you won't be disappointed.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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10

chicagopianoAug 12, 2011

I went into this movie expecting Black Hawk Down but I wasn't disappointed when i didn't get it, instead i really enjoyed the slow paced yet interesting story. Critics enjoyed this movie for a reason, they are professionals who have studiedI went into this movie expecting Black Hawk Down but I wasn't disappointed when i didn't get it, instead i really enjoyed the slow paced yet interesting story. Critics enjoyed this movie for a reason, they are professionals who have studied hard in the field of film, they know what they're talking about.… Expand

1 of 5 users found this helpful14

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1

mdfizeJul 19, 2011

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The first time I saw the trailer of the movie, I thought it wouldÂ´ve been an interesting one. I was wrong. It started OK but from there on it was totally boring. Critics applaud the film for the "suspense" in it and the performance by Jeremy Renner and its photography and storyline. What storyline? The film features a lot of "tense ful" bomb defusing moments or in other words, "suspenseful" situations one after another that, really, lead to no conclusion. The guy easily defuses the bombs with almost no problems. A rookie soldier would've made those scenes a little bit more tense...maybe. The characters were forgettable. There is no character development in the film. The scene where James is trying to "find out" who killed the little Beckham also has no conclusion because he just randomly went to the house of this professor and asked what happened to the boy and moments later he goes back to his base. Also that night, the bomb squad heads to this place where, yes you guessed it, another bomb has blown. And the three are in pursue of the responsibles for that bomb. In the end, one of them gets shot and no one is captured. Bottom line, the film's about suspense situation after suspense situation that lead to no conclusion. A great film is one that introduces new artistic ways for filmmaking, a good story, which this film does not have, good character development and a good screenplay and the list goes on and on. The Hurt Locker has nothing of those.… Expand

4 of 10 users found this helpful46

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1

Prowler477Jun 22, 2011

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Some cool moments (like the sniping, didn't make any sense that a guy who disarms bombs knows how to spot and snipe guys makes no sense, to their own expertise or the story-line) but the plot and characters, especially the main character ticked me off. The black guy constantly trying to kill the main character was the breaking point for me. We need to support our troops not act like every CO is a bastard with his men trying to kill him. The unpatriotic views makes me sick. The and the fact it has gotten great critic reviews is slander. One of the worst war movies I have ever seen.… Expand

2 of 5 users found this helpful23

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