By Rollie Nichols
Staff Writer
How far are you willing to go to protect your family? In the movie “Homefront,” a man must decide just that. The film however, has not lived up to its potential given the caliber of actors, writers, and directors it has. The movie is not a complete failure but also does not wow the audience.
This film is based off the novel by Chuck Logan and is directed by Gary Fleder.
When Sylvester Stallone takes is involved in a film, it can be assumed that it will be successful. Stallone is the writer of the screenplay for Homefront. With a writer like Stallone, it has to be assumed that Fleder’s work as director is at fault for the poor decisions made in the movie-making process.
The movie has its moments of glory that put the viewer on the edge of his seat but those moments do not come often enough. The fight scenes and action in the movie are the main things that made the film slightly enjoyable.
The music during the film is great and the sound effects/audio work well with the movie too. No sounds seem out of place and the dialogue is easy to hear and understand.
“Homefront” is a modern day movie about drugs, violence, and a good guy vs. bad guy mentality. The lack of originality in the film leaves the viewer bored at times while watching.
James Franco has learned to play the bad guy in the movies he stars in and has nearly perfected it. His acting in this movie is phenomenal and he makes it seem like he is not acting at all. He is frightening, devious, and connected with his character.
On the other hand, Jason Stathom, the protagonist, does a poor job with his acting. It seems he has to force his lines and does not connect with his character. His character is so important that this weakness keeps the film from being as powerful as it could be.
The lack of originality also what makes this film less enjoyable. The plot – where a man has to do everything including kill to protect his family – is over used. Nothing in this particular film changes the plot enough to grab the viewer’s attention.
This action packed film is full of violence and fight scenes that require stuntmen. The stunts in the movie are phenomenal and the fights actually look real. The visual effects of the movie like the blood, explosions and violence are realistic and add to the experience.
The stuntmen that take part in the fights make it look more realistic. The blood, makeup, and tears in their clothing look like real wounds and results of a fight. Unlike other films where the fights look fake, this one manages to draw in the viewers and make them feel the pain as well.
The film is better than average, but certainly does not wow its viewers. It is recommended hesitantly due to its lack of originality.
Homefront came out on the 27th of November, is rated R, and is now playing in theatres nationwide.
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