Movie Review | "Act of Valor"

The Oscars are over, and what a great night it was. I was pretty darn close on my predictions, and I looked absolutely stunning in my 'off the shoulder' Vera Wang rip-away tuxedo and my Jimmy Choo shoes.

OK, you caught me in a lie, I wore pajamas. They were very nice though, they had "Transformers" prints all over them.

Now, this is what Matty W. Kelley, a boy, talks about. Childish stuff. Movies and robots are the immature thoughts that flow through my tiny, little, pea-sized brain. This is because I like to think that life is simple.

But life isn't simple. Not for everyone.

There are men and women out there risking their lives for our country. They are risking their lives for our families and friends. They are risking their lives so I can sit in the comfort of my home and write silly movie reviews for you to enjoy.

These men and women take an oath to protect us. They are unselfish and dedicated to their country and everyone who lives under our nation's flag.

I can't say it enough. Thank you to our armed forces. You are the reason I get to do the things I want to do, when I want to do them, and where I want to do them. You give me freedom. And we as a nation owe you so much more than you give us (and give up for us). So, once again, thank you from the bottom of my heart. 

The armed forces are on my mind today because over the weekend I saw an incredible film called "Act of Valor." It was so incredible, I saw it twice in twelve hours.

"Act of Valor" tells the story of "Bandito Platoon," a team of Navy SEALs sent out on a covert mission to rescue a kidnapped CIA agent. After rescuing her, they uncover a much larger plot involving weapons smugglers, "fart" guerrillas (yes, that is what they are called), and a deadly terrorist plot, set to happen on U.S. soil.

I don't want to ruin the story for you, because I want you all to see it and enjoy it the way I did. Let me just jump around randomly and tell you about the film.

The story is based on true events. But I can't tell you how true because it was a covert operation and the U.S. government wouldn't let me see the files. They wouldn't even take my calls. Hell, if they knew it was me, I would be their next mission.

The actors in this film were not actors per se. They are actual Navy SEALs who, from what I gathered from my intel, ended up shooting this film over a two to a two and a half year period. I read that it was tough to shoot because they could only film major parts of the movie when all of them were on leave at the same time. I think they may have also taken acting classes, because they were all very good. Robotic, but good... I think they seemed robotic because, when you're a Navy SEAL, you do things a certain way. If your "chief" says jump, you jump, no questions asked. You don't complain. You don't throw your personality into it (like I would). If you're asked a question, you answer it, straightforward, and that's how it's done. Period.

The movie takes place all over the world; San Diego, Ukraine, Somalia, Mexicali, Russia, on the ocean, in the air, and maybe even off the coast of New Guinea (if that's even possible - I'm not sure if it's even on the coast, but I know I heard that name in the movie). The landscapes were beautiful in some places, depressing in others. But no matter what, the filmaking was spectacular.

Also, Bandito Platoon was a tight knit family. All eight of the soldiers cared deeply for each other. They would have their families hang out together. They ALWAYS had each others' backs. Before they were sent out on their mission, they all got together and said something like, "Get your affairs in order at home, because when we leave tomorrow, our focus is on the mission. If you're having finacial problems, tell the 'Chief,' he'll square everything away. It's all about the mission."

Once at war, these men all have a certain job. And they all do their jobs to perfection, from sniper to radio-man. This platoon is a finely tuned machine. They pick bad guys off one by one without any of the other bad guys even knowing what going on around them. And the fighting scenes? Well, they are INTENSE! Some of the best fighting scenes I've ever seen in a war film. And yes, I've seen "Saving Private Ryan." It's right up there with that... and it's so up to date. It looks so current, like it was shot during a war that's going on right now somewhere in the world.

These guys are the best. The best of the best. I would give my left arm to be half the man that these men are. Alright, maybe not my left arm, but I think you know what you mean. I truly admire these men, and once you see the movie, you'll understand where I'm coming from. 

I strongly suggest you get out and see this film. It is inspiring. It will show you how strong, loyal, and dedicated the men of war really are. It is a film that both men and women should love. Especially men... but be sure to bring your Kleenex.

"All boots are on the ground."

Matty W. Kelley, Patch, reporting.

Fun Fact: Live ammo was use during the making of this film to make it look completely realistic.

Fun Matty Fact: Up until this movie, "Star Wars" was my favorite 'war' movie.