Mendes's Jarhead, a forgotten gem, explores the complex psychology of the Gulf War

Jarhead - Sam Mendes - 2005

★★★★-Operation Dessert Storm movie. Portrayed in all its futility, with the Iraq War just getting started at the time of its release. Doesn't exactly make me wish I had enlisted instead of going to school. 

Directed by Sam Mendes. He also did American Beauty, Road to Perdition, Skyfall, Spectre, and 1917. A real talent, this guy. Have to be to get a pair of Bond films. 

The film delves into the psychological study of a U.S. Marine sniper during the Gulf War dealing with existential issues with meaning, purpose, and boredom. Hones in on the isolation and monotony that the soldiers experienced in that mostly forgotten war. Adapted from Anthony Swofford's memoir of the same name.

The movie stars Jake Gyllenhaal as Swofford, who gives a great performance. Shows a lot of subdued range. Others in the ensemble include Jamie Foxx, Peter Sarsgaard, Lucas Black, Dennis Haysbert, and Chris Cooper, who are all at the top of their collective games. 

Criticized for a lack of a strong emotional impact. I strongly disagreed with that assessment, as the movie hammers home the delayed psychological effects of traumatic experiences in a morally dubious war that started a fight with consequences for a generation that are still ever-present. A good introspective exploration of war. Definite recommend, even as one opposed to both this war and the next one. 

They Cloned Tyrone delivers clever social satire and compelling storyline

They Cloned Tyrone - Juel Taylor - 2023

★★★★-Overall, thrilling story that blended humor and suspense with excellent performances. Has something of Westworld quality to it. I loved it, though it drags on a little near the end. Still a phenomenal social commentary and with subtle humor that will reward multiple viewings. Currently streaming on Netflix. Released on Barbenheimer Day. 

Stellar cast. Stars John Boyega (Attack the Block, the new Star Wars movies), Teyonah Parris (Candyman, Dear White People.), and Jamie Foxx, who produced the film. Easily in my top three Foxx performances. Together, the trio embarks on a journey to unravel a hidden government cloning conspiracy that threatens to keep black communities from self-improvement. Also appearing in the film are David Alan Grier and the renowned Kiefer Sutherland.

The directorial debut of Juel Taylor, I thought it was another Boots Riley film until I saw it wasn't at the end. Shares a lot of DNA with Sorry to Bother You, which is a major compliment in my book. Taylor co-wrote the with Tony Rettenmaier. 

Clever, odd, compelling with a great score that includes a version of “Call Tyrone” that is awesome. The performances are stellar, and the social satire hits home without being preachy. Fans of blaxploitation as well as people that appreciate comedy sci-fi/mystery will find the movie especially enjoyable.