Viewers are hailing the 2013 war film 'Lone Survivor' as the best war drama since 'Saving Private Ryan' and 'Black Hawk Down,' with the movie now streaming on Netflix. The film, directed by Peter Berg and starring Mark Wahlberg, Taylor Kitsch, Emile Hirsch, Ben Foster, and Eric Bana, has earned a 87% audience approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes from over 100,000 reviews.
Authenticity and Realism Praised
Based on the 2007 non-fiction book by former Navy SEAL Marcus Luttrell and Patrick Robinson, 'Lone Survivor' recreates the 2005 Operation Red Wings in Afghanistan. Luttrell and other Navy SEAL veterans served as technical consultants, contributing to the film's acclaimed authenticity. One critic called it 'the most harrowing combat film since Saving Private Ryan,' while another noted its 'visceral, exciting and thought-provoking' nature.
Box Office and Awards
The film grossed $154.8 million worldwide against a $40 million budget and earned two Oscar nominations for Best Sound Editing and Best Sound Mixing at the 86th Academy Awards. Critics have drawn comparisons to 'Black Hawk Down' and 'Saving Private Ryan,' with one reviewer stating, 'Small in scale but just as intense, Lone Survivor's extended battle recalls the opening of Steven Spielberg's Saving Private Ryan.'
Audience Reactions
Viewers have been equally captivated, with one describing it as 'a raw, emotional tribute to the bravery, sacrifice, and brotherhood of those who serve.' Another called it 'easily the best War Movie since Saving Private Ryan, only an actual story.' An IMDB reviewer added, 'This film is as good as Black Hawk Down and Saving Private Ryan, it is absolutely worth seeing on the big screen.'
'Lone Survivor' is currently available to stream on Netflix.
