Review: Red Dawn / Cert: 12 / Director: Dan Bradley / Screenplay: Carl Ellsworth, Jeremy Passmore / Starring: Chris Hemsworth, Josh Peck, Josh Hutcherson, Adrianne Palicki, Isabel Lucas, Jeffrey Dean Morgan / Release Date: Out Now
In this remake of the 1984 film of the same name starring Patrick Swayze, Charlie Sheen and Jennifer Grey, first-time director Dan Bradley brings things up to date with an up and coming cast and explosive effects.
RED DAWN is filled with stars known within the sci-fi, horror and fantasy genres, including Chris Hemsworth (THOR, CABIN IN THE WOODS), Brett Cullen (LOST), Josh Hutcherson (THE HUNGER GAMES), Isabel Lucas (TRANSFORMERS), Adrianne Palicki (SUPERNATURAL, LEGION) and Jeffrey Dean Morgan (SUPERNATURAL). Director Dan Bradley also has several links with the genres, having served as stunt co-ordinator and second unit film director in films such as the SPIDER-MAN franchise, INDEPENDENCE DAY, QUANTUM OF SOLACE, and SUPERMAN RETURNS.
When US marine Jed (Hemsworth) returns home on a leave of absence, he reunites with his father and younger brother. Suddenly, the town is invaded by North Korean paratroopers, with bombs and helicopters shooting at the townspeople. When the family are nearly killed during the invasion, their father (Cullen) orders them away to a cabin in the woods for safety. Along with a few others (including Josh Hutcherson), they try to wait it out. When their hiding place is discovered, they must go on the run and prepare for war against the cruel and relentless Captain Cho and his men.
Filled with impressive special effects, this film will be a treat for action fans as the survivors fight to their deaths, but may seem somewhat lacking in individuality for everyone else. However, the cast are strong, especially Hemsworth, who proves time and time again that he is one of the rufty-tuftiest leading men to emerge from Hollywood for a while; his strained relationship with his brother provides a constant source of intriguing tension. The film is enjoyable, fast paced and full of action. Bradley’s years of experience working within the action genre has proved useful as he achieves an exciting directorial debut.
Extras: 5 Featurettes / Soundbites / Trailers
