Stop-Loss
A Personal View
Nilda F. Andrews
Stop-Loss by director Kimberly Pierce of 'Boys Don’t Cry' may be construed as an anti-Iraqi war film focusing on the United States government’s policy of extending a soldier’s tour of duty after his, or her contract has been completed. This policy has been unofficially dubbed, by those affected, as a back-door draft. But it is more than that as it reveals how the war has affected both bystanders and combatants alike.
There is a little propagandizing as in all war films, but the film is from a very personal point of view of the main character, Brandon King (Ryan Phillipe). You are sympathetic with his plight—from being very naive in thinking if he just explains the situation to his state senator, he will be exempted to finally going AWOL once he learns the reality of his situation.
Excellent Supporting Cast
The supporting cast is excellent from Phillipe’s mother and father (Linda Edmond and Ciarán Hinds) to his best Army buddy (Channing Tatum) with whom King has a conflict over leaving the military. Adding to the conflict is Tatum’s girlfriend, (Abbie Cornish) as a very tough, savvy young woman who sympathizes with King and helps in his get away.
Whether or not you are for or against the Iraqi conflict, this film is worth seeing as it explores whether or not the U.S. government’s Stop-Loss policy is justifiable.
Cast and Credits
Cast: Ryan Phillippe, Abbie Cornish, Channing Tatum
Rated: R
Release Date: 28 March 2008
Stop Loss Trailer
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