12 Strong: The Declassified True Story of the Horse Soldiers
Rated 7.1/10 on IMDB, 12 Strong is a war drama film directed by Nicolai Fuglsig and written by Ted Tally and Peter Craig. The movie is based on the book "Horse Soldiers: The Extraordinary Story of a Band of U.S. Soldiers Who Rode into Afghanistan after 9/11 and Defeated the Taliban" by Doug Stanton.
The True Story
The film tells the story of the first U.S. Special Forces team to be sent to Afghanistan after the 9/11 attacks. The team, known as ODA 595, consists of 12 men who are tasked with partnering with the Northern Alliance to take down the Taliban. Led by Captain Mitch Nelson (Chris Hemsworth), the team must navigate the treacherous terrain of Afghanistan on horseback, earning them the nickname "the Horse Soldiers."
The Cast
- Chris Hemsworth as Captain Mitch Nelson
- Michael Shannon as Chief Warrant Officer Hal Spencer
- Michael Peña as Sergeant First Class Sam Diller
- ** Trevante Rhodes** as Sergeant First Class Ben Milo
- Navid Negahban as General Abdul Rashid Dostum
- William Fichtner as Colonel John Mulholland
- Rob Riggle as Lieutenant Colonel Bowers
The Reception
12 Strong received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising the film's action sequences and performances, while others criticized its formulaic storytelling and character development. Despite this, the film was a commercial success, grossing over $67 million worldwide.
The Legacy
The true story of the Horse Soldiers is a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of the U.S. military. The film's portrayal of their heroism has helped to raise awareness of their actions and inspire a new generation of soldiers.
Conclusion
12 Strong is a gripping and intense war drama that tells the incredible true story of the Horse Soldiers. With a talented cast and impressive action sequences, the film is a must-see for fans of the genre. While it may not be perfect, 12 Strong is a worthy tribute to the men who risked everything to protect their country.
