Patriots Day (2016)

Directed by: Peter Berg

Written by: Peter Berg, Matt Cook, Joshua Zetumer, Paul Tamasy, & Eric Johnson

Starring: Mark Wahlberg, Michelle Monaghan, & J.K. Simmons



When I saw the trailer for this film, I was excited for two reasons.  The first reason was that I have worked extensively on the Boston Marathon footage for a project on the death penalty, and was eager to see how this film related to it.  Secondly, it was directed by Peter Berg who also directed Deepwater Horizon about the oil spill.  I loved that film and felt this one would be just as good.  I was right.

The story follows Tommy Saunders (Wahlberg), a cop who had just been assigned to secure the Boston Marathon.  Of course, like in real life, two explosions shake the marathon, killing several and injuring many.  Saunders, along with the rest of the police force start a man hunt looking for the two terrorists.  But the story doesn't keep on Saunders and follows the other people that were affected by these terrorists.  That's one of the best things about Berg movies.  He doesn't like to keep the spotlight on one person, but would rather share it across other cast members.

Another great thing about the film is the editing.  The film incorporates real footage from the marathon with their shots in which you can barely notice which is which.  I love when you can't notice.  Of course, there was some footage which you could tell was real, but it worked well into the film, where it didn't make a difference.

And lastly, the film kept asking the right questions.  A good film continuously has questions that keep the plot going.  It makes the audience eager for more.  Therefore, everyone should see the film.  5 popcorns.