Fury

Fury

Starring Brad Pitt, Logan Lerman, Shia LaBeouf, Jon Bernthal

Directed by David Ayer

Synopsis:
In April 1945, the European Theater of World War II is ending, and the Allies are making their final push into Nazi territory, but the Germans have a powerful weapon - their tanks are more powerful and can sustain more damage than the American tanks.


"Wardaddy" (Brad Pitt) has commanded his Fury tank for years, and has kept the same three men at his side - "Bible" (Shia LaBeouf), "Gordo" (Michael Pena) and "Coon-Ass" (Jon Bernthal), and the men consider each other family.

With the addition of Norman (Logan Lerman) - a youthful lad who has never seen the ravages of war - the four men try to initiate him into the real terrors of war that at first terrify Norman, but slowly he begins to understand that it's either kill or be killed.

When their tank breaks down on the middle of a road, they become sitting ducks as an army of German soldiers are advancing their way.  Never giving up, the five men decide to hole up in the tank and take out as many Germans as possible - and hopefully survive the onslaught.

Review:
"Fury" is easily one of the best World War II movies of this generation, behind greats like "Schindler's List" and "Saving Private Ryan."  Director David Ayer ("Training Day," "The Fast & the Furious") brings to horrid life the ravages of war, and eliminates the glorification of it.  This is no "Call of Duty."  The film is visually graphic with death, bodies, and body parts everywhere, which articulates how war really is, and, in Wardaddy's words, "ideals are peaceful.  History is violent."

With Brad Pitt as its anchor, "Fury" showcases some of today's hottest new talent, especially from Logan Lerman, who delivers his most powerful and moving performance to date, and could garner him an Oscar nomination, along with Pitt and the movie itself.  Shia LaBeouf - fresh from his very well-known freakout - is surprisingly serious in this film and gives an unforgettable performance.  Rounding out the main cast is Jon "Walking Dead" Bernthal and Michael Pena, who both give it everything they got, which shows in their excellent acting.

The cinematography is utterly amazing, showcasing brilliant effects and stunning visuals, as the entire movie is filmed either at night or on cloudy days, which adds to the grittiness and depression of the war itself.  The action sequences will literally blow you away, especially the final battle.  Even in the moments of normalcy, danger looms at every corner, leaving you on the edge of your seat.

Summary:
The Oscar season has officially begun, and "Fury" erupts from the gate with a compelling story, inspiring acting and an overall pitch-perfect tone.

My Rating: A+