Paradise Under Siege: Fight or Flight?

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MOVIE REVIEW
Men of War (Collector's Edition)
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Genre: Action, Adventure
Year Released: 1994, 2024 MVD Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 43m
Director(s): Perry Lang
Writer(s): Stan Rogow, John Sayles, Ethan Reiff, Cyrus Voris
Cast: Dolph Lundgren, Charlotte Lewis, BD Wong, Tim Guinee, Catherine Bell, Trevor Goddard, Tommy Lister, Jr., Thomas Gibson, Tony Denison, Don Harvey, Tom Wright
Where To Watch: available December 10, 2024; pre-order your copy here: www.mvdshop.com or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: MEN OF WAR, released in 1994, plunges into the heart of conflict through the lens of action and redemption, with Dolph Lundgren at the forefront as Nick Gunar. This film breaks away from the traditional action blueprint, exploring deeper and darker themes, and it is a surprising and welcome change led by Perry Lang's direction. Instead of the usual gun-blazing spectacle, Lundgren portrays a protagonist grappling with the consequences of his actions, making this not just another action flick but a thought-provoking narrative about the human spirit and ethical dilemmas.

In MEN OF WAR, Gunar is a battle-hardened mercenary who is no stranger to the horrors of war but finds himself at a moral crossroads when faced with a mission that isn't just another paycheck. He and his team are dispatched to an island; their task is to convince the local inhabitants to surrender their land for mining. As the mercenaries interact more with the island's residents, they reflect on their purpose, with the surrounding environment challenging their hardened facades. The island isn't just a backdrop for this story; it reflects tranquility and the impending storm of greed threatening its shores.

Lundgren’s performance is a departure from his usual roles, offering a window into the soul of a man wrestling with his past and future. His interactions with the islanders and his squad reveal layers of complexity not typically seen in the genre. Supporting actors, notably Trevor Goddard as the antagonist Keefer, enhance the film with fierce performances and are integral to the unfolding ethical battles. Their confrontations aren't just physical but ideological, pitting the raw survival instincts against more resounding calls for justice and protection.

However, despite its ambitious narrative, MEN OF WAR isn’t without its pitfalls. The film’s deliberate pacing, while allowing for character development, might test some viewers' patience when expecting non-stop action. Additionally, some characters feel underdeveloped, and their motivations and backstories needed more screen time to resonate entirely. These gaps occasionally make the storyline feel somewhat predictable.

MEN OF WAR offers more than combat sequences—it's a journey that questions the price of peace and the value of conscience. The action sequences are as strategic as they are explosive to highlight the physical and emotional stakes. Rohn Schmidt’s cinematography expertly contrasts the island's lush landscapes with the chaos of battle, making every frame a painting of conflict and beauty.

The film also critiques exploitation, using the island's microcosm to reflect broader global issues. The screenplay treats the islanders with dignity, avoiding clichés and portraying them as complex figures with agency and voice. This approach provides a fresh perspective on the often one-dimensional portrayal of Indigenous peoples, especially in this era.

MEN OF WAR goes beyond the typical genre expectations by delivering a story that is as introspective as thrilling. It combines the spectacle of action with the depth of a drama, making it a standout genre film that should not be overlooked. Whether you’re drawn in by the promise of adrenaline-pumping scenes or the complex moral questions it poses, MEN OF WAR ensures that viewers leave both entertained and reflective, a rare feat in an often predictable genre.

Bonus Materials
High Definition (1080p) presentation of the main feature in 2.35:1 Aspect Ratio
English LPCM 2.0 Stereo and 5.1 Surround & Optional Spanish 2.0 Mono Audio
Optional English and Spanish Subtitles
NEW! Introduction by Director Perry Lang
Archival Featurette: 'An Unsafe Place: Making Men of War' (HD, 12:48)
Raw Footage / Dailies of Select Scenes from “Men of War” (SD, 09:45)
Photo Gallery
Theatrical Trailer (SD, 01:47)
2-Sided Artwork
Collectible Mini-Poster
Limited Edition Slipcover (first pressing only)

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