Act of Valor

I was in the mood for an action movie and 9/11 got me in a patriotic mood so I had Netflix deliver me up Act of Valor.  They got real military folk to be the military guys in the movie and I think it paid off.  The dialogue and acting was a bit stilted, but the action shots seemed more realistic.  Some of you know there is a strong military tradition in my mom's side of the family so I'm predisposed to liking these jingoistic movies, but I thought it was well-done.  The plot was fairly straightforward and believable and the action was tight.  There were some scenes for reflection, but they weren't long enough to detract from stuff blowing up.

There were more headshots than expected, but I guess that's a consequence of body armor.

I highly recommend this movie if you're in the mood for America, Fuck yeah!

It also has this awesome poem allegedly from Tecumseh:

“So live your life that the fear of death can never enter your heart. Trouble no one about their religion; respect others in their view, and demand that they respect yours. Love your life, perfect your life, beautify all things in your life. Seek to make your life long and its purpose in the service of your people. Prepare a noble death song for the day when you go over the great divide.

Always give a word or a sign of salute when meeting or passing a friend, even a stranger, when in a lonely place. Show respect to all people and grovel to none.

When you arise in the morning give thanks for the food and for the joy of living. If you see no reason for giving thanks, the fault lies only in yourself. Abuse no one and no thing, for abuse turns the wise ones to fools and robs the spirit of its vision.

When it comes your time to die, be not like those whose hearts are filled with the fear of death, so that when their time comes they weep and pray for a little more time to live their lives over again in a different way. Sing your death song and die like a hero going home.”