Netflix viewers are calling the war drama 'Mosul' a 'hidden gem must-watch' and the 'best war film since Black Hawk Down and The Hurt Locker.' The 2019 Arabic-language film, written and directed by Matthew Michael Carnahan, is rooted in the true events of the Battle of Mosul in 2016, which saw Iraqi government forces and coalition allies defeat ISIS and reclaim the city.
Critical Acclaim
Critics have heaped praise on the film, with one stating: 'Mosul is a well-made action film with an important message and a lot of heart, a combination seen all too rarely these days.' Another reviewer commended the director and cast: 'Matthew Michael Carnahan makes a stellar directorial debut with Mosul, a hard-hitting, must-see movie which sees star Suhail Dabbach deliver an Oscar-worthy performance which it would be a crime to overlook.'
Audience Reactions
Viewers have been overwhelmed by the film's quality. One said: 'The BEST war movie since Black Hawk Down! Amazing! Authentic and a true story!' Another drew comparisons: 'The best movie about urban warfare, post Black Hawk Down. Set in the city of Mosul, this is a superb thriller that pits a squad of Syrian SWAT soldiers against Daesh or ISIS, in the last days of Islamic State.'
One fan noted: 'Better than most big budget films. Bottom line the movie has depth to it that is more than its great acting it's a must watch! I would say this is on par with Lone Survivor, American Sniper, and The Outpost. It is very original.' Another viewer was astounded by the film's authenticity: 'A movie so engaging that it's hard to believe there's a film crew there with lights and cameras. Astoundingly real.'
Background
Mosul made its debut at the Venice Film Festival in 2019 before landing on Netflix in November 2020. The film features Suhail Dabbach in the lead role, alongside Is'haq Elias, Hayat Kamille, Thaer Al-Shayei, Adam Bessa, Ahmad Elghanem, and Waleed Elgadi. It drew inspiration from Luke Mogelson's piece published in The New Yorker in January 2017, entitled 'The Desperate Battle to Destroy ISIS.' The film was shot in Marrakesh, Morocco.
Mosul is available to stream on Netflix.
