Beasts of No Nation

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Kevin P A tragic and emotionally devastating depiction of child soldiers in West Africa. The cinematography is captivating as it contrasts the beautiful green jungle with the horrific abuse and war crimes that fester. The child acting is really impressive and they're able to match the energy of Idris Elba's diabolical performance as the Commandant. The warlord keeping them captive and modeling them into child soldiers. He pulls off the tight balance of charismatic, intimidating, and putrid as he molds young war refugees into his obedient human weapons and lap dogs, forcing them to commit some truly horrific acts against the enemy and civilians young and old. The Guerrilla Warfare tactics were clever and interesting to watch, such as ambushing under a bridge with literal leaf camouflage, stripping enemy vehicle & weapons for parts, or burning their tents to erase their trace from the enemy. Thankfully there is some levity early on as you get to know the main protagonist's family. There's a funny gag with the "Imagination TV" and great payoff at the dinner scene. But the commandant. only becomes worse as the movie goes on. With brutal training methods to test their loyalty, one involving a machete. He even labels civilian farmers as "traitors" and "Collaborators that feed the enemy". Followed by a horrific scene where the child soldiers go full circle as they become the very village slayers that Kickstart their plight to begin with. Eventually, the Commandments disregard for human life comes to bite him when his commanding leader orders him to step down in favor of the UN's aide, realizing how his war crimes will not help their global PR. The Commandment's spiteful rejection outs him on the run from both parties. And it becomes so satisfying when his abused militia finally turn on him, abandoning him as their supplies run out. The group even spare him, but only because he's so pathetic and useless without them, deserving a prolonged fate alone with no one. Admittedly, the ending resolution was a little rushed, but to be fair this was after 2+ hours an otherwise gripping and well faced war movie about the loss of innocence. It ends on a bittersweet note, but I'm glad they finally receive help by the end even if the nightmares will linger. It's a captivating film about how desperate and traumatic war zones can allow evil to thrive and exploit the others around them, even if for a so-called "noble cause". Much like a sinking ship where some will choose to push down others to keep themselves afloat. It's a grim reminder of all the injustices child soldiers have to endure. It's not for the faint of heart, but it's a very engaging and emotionally moving picture that will move you. Rated 4.5/5 Stars •  Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars 08/07/25 Full Review George B Beasts of No Nation is not just a film—it is an experience. It is a brutal, beautiful, and unforgettable work of art that brings light to the often-overlooked plight of child soldiers. A must-watch for anyone who values powerful storytelling and cinema with a conscience. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 06/27/25 Full Review Sully G Should be mandatory viewing for non-Africans Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 06/17/25 Full Review Takis T Probably the best film out there about child-warriors in the never-ending civil wars of Africa. Clue: even better than the (very good) Blood Diamond. Rated 4.5/5 Stars •  Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars 07/20/25 Full Review Doreen M Idris Elba was robbed at the Oscars, this was a masterful performance by him. His character is terrifying in ways other evil characters are not, because there is a layer of honesty and realism his performance brings. He is not just a comical evil dictator trope. Amazing movie that everyone should see at least once. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 10/21/24 Full Review eric g I don't remember it being this good. This is simply one of the best war movies I've ever seen. Brutally realistic. Nothing is watered down Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 07/19/24 Full Review Read all reviews

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