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A Reel Life film section

Issue: 2010

The Hurt Locker (2008) movie review

War is a Blast

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This is not based on a true story.

This may not even be based on a true war.

This is the story of Iraq that the United States of America's pentagon might want you to believe. Or the White House's version. It is pure propoganda, from its opening moment of 'our' boys in 'their' streets, taking their lives in their hands, following their protocols, to make the streets of a foreign country safe -- despite the locals.

It's slo-mo shots of ordinance and dust, close-in shots of the blokes bonding over a bit of body blows and booze, and a remarkably sanitised view of what it is to be troubled by being at war.

Movie poster; The Hurt Locker; Festivale film review; 220x326

Movie poster, The Hurt Locker
War is a Drug

And no, those who've been there are not saying this is realistic or accurate.

Director Kathryn Bigelow has never really produced up to her early promise with Blue Steel. That was moody and human. This is artificial and contrived. Over-long and over-worked.

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by Ali Kayn
Due for Australian release February 4 2010
For credits and official site details, see below
Search Festivale for more work by the film-makers below.

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Just the facts:

Title: The Hurt Locker (2008)
Written by: Mark Boal
Directed by: Kathryn Bigelow
Running time: 131 mins
Rating: MA

The Players: Guy Pearce, Ralph Fiennes, David Morse,

Official website: http://www.thehurtlocker-movie.com
IMDb entry

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