by Chantal Ashford, Contributing Writer
I am not that big of a fan of military films. They can be brutal and harsh as they portray what soldiers go through. I only really enjoy a few, but in general, they pique my interest and keep me focused and entertained. So with Guy Ritchie’s The Covenant, I was sold on the director and its leading man, Jake Gyllenhaal. We all have that favorite director and actor for whom we would see anything because of their involvement. This was one of those reasons, but as I sat there, I enjoyed this film.
During the War on Afghanistan in 2018, U.S. Army sergeant, John Kinley (Gyllenhaal), recruits local, Ahmed (Dar Salim), to interpret during their mission. Ahmed agrees to help Kinley and his team, for the price of U.S. visas for Ahmed and his family. After their team is ambushed, Ahmed risks his life to carry a wounded John miles across the rugged terrain of Afghanistan. They are finally rescued, and John’s life goes back to normal. Ahmed and his family go into hiding to help John. Now, it’s John’s turn to return to Ahmed, and get him and his family out alive.
The Covenant speaks heavily on camaraderie. There’s a brotherhood between these men, as they are there for each other and looking out for one another. How long you’ve known a person doesn’t matter, because these are the men they have to protect and bring back home over time. That’s not an easy feat, but Ahmed, someone with a lot to lose, is willing to do right by his temporary brother in arms after knowing him for only what seems to be 72 hours, if not less.
Half of the film is Ahmed and John’s travels over the country’s dangerous grounds. Those scenes of Ahmed doing everything and anything to make sure John makes it back to the base are encouraging. You’ll be on the edge of your seat, not realizing you’re holding your breath during the pulsating moment(s) these two men have found themselves in, but somehow barely make it out alive.
The scenes between Gyllenhaal and Salim are subtle but intense. They don’t speak to one another often, but when those conversations happen, they are short and powerful, sometimes harsh. They give the other a distinct look, and everything’s okay.
As Gyllenhaal is the star of this film, he shows you that leading man power as always. We know he can carry a movie. That’s nothing new. But Salim is the standout — he’s a man with a purpose, doing anything and everything for his family. He’s seen as a traitor, risking his life for the enemy and fighting for his survival, along with his own — you are rooting for them and praying they get past the enemy’s line. Salim’s subtle looks and discreet actions aren’t unseen, even as he betrays his people and country. He sees this as a job, and the reward for fulfilling this job is to get out of the country.
We’re used to Ritchie’s directing style: daring shots, voiceover narration, and linear storyline with multiple subplots that clear up at the finale. Here, he doesn’t give us everything we’re used to seeing in one of his features. You can catch a glimpse of some of his style in certain scenes, but this movie doesn’t feel like a Ritchie picture, which makes it even better.
Guy Ritchie’s The Covenant tells the story it wants to tell, and keeps you entertained, not wanting to look away. With great performances, and intense scenes where you hold your breath with your heart racing, The Covenant carries out its promises, including being great.
Score: 8/10
The Covenant is currently playing in theaters
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