Lord of War (2005)

When Are Viewers Going To Understand? This IS A Magnificant, Must See, True "Reality" Show!

"Lord of War" is a wake up call for all people; it is a movie that emotionally effects the viewer and spotlights the reality of war that the mass media, educational systems, and social structure do not want you to understand. The first time I viewed this movie I found myself in complete disbelief that Hollywood had actually been able to release this film, because it is the ultimate "Reality" show: so truthful it is scary. In fact, without the cynical, often gut-wrenching, humor, the film would be "too real" to consider "entertainment." I believe that it is this "ultra realism" that has lead to reviews that are, as stated by another reviewer, NAIVE--or cynical at best. That there are more reviews with four or fewer stars attests to the inability/refusal of viewers to pay attention to what they are watching. "Lord of War" is definitely not pure, unabashed indulgence of one's senses, but a film that requires listening and watching--engaging the film; not passing the time.

As a former Combat Engineer Officer who was "courted" more than a few times by "gun buyers" and mercenaries--no I never got involved--I can assure you, like Robert D. Steele in his review, I have seen it all; and to the degree that I was ordered to abandon and bury weapons, ammunitions, and other military equipment, I was an unwilling participant in bringing war to others.

The script is superb; the acting is so seamless, that it is easy to see how other reviewers describe the acting as something short of completely poor performances. Again, Robert D. Steele puts it most succinctly: "This is a first rate movie with some truly extraordinary visuals and some truly extraordinary lines." It is unfortunate that politics, personal beliefs, and a general lack of interest in understanding the world we live in must overwhelm potential viewer's interest, and thereby distract or prevent them from viewing, such a distinctly unique and powerful movie as "Lord of War." When you watch the film, instead of thinking there is no way it could happen, stop and ask yourself: If this is really happening, what does it mean to me, my family, and my friends--not to mention nation? Then look at the research and the facts out there, and you will see that "Lord of War" is truly entertainment (at its' best) imitating reality; that "Lord of War" is a movie you can watch over and over as a reality check that entertains and engages you, the viewer.

Additionally, the 2-Disc Special Edition provides documentary follow-up to the statements and information made in the movie. While these features were not "news" to me, they have proven very beneficial for helping others who view the film as "too far fetched to be true," despite their keen awareness of my past and knowledge of such events. They definitely add to the credibility of the movie for many. So, hopefully, more people will be encouraged to venture into true "reality," and view this film--either for the first time, or with a "new" understanding of what the "Lord of War" is about.

Update--1 July 2008: If this review was not helpful to you, I would appreciate learning the reason(s) so I can improve my reviews. My goal is to provide help to potential buyers, not get into any arguments. So, if you only disagree with my opinion, could you please say so in the comments and not indicate that the review was not helpful. Thanks. June 7, 2008

Lord of War is HD DVD!!

I checked to see if this film which I rented from Netflix in HD DVD was available on Amazon in that format and it isn't. Too bad because this film is one of Nick Cage's better efforts. Produced by him as well, Cage has a great role as an Russian-American who discovers the way to wealth is thru selling arms. Of course he doesn't figure the enormous cost it will eventually lead him to but that's one of the intriguing outcomes of this absorbing film. The narrative is done in the style of Scorsese's "Goodfellows" and is effective plus the supporting cast (Jared Leto, Ian Holm, Bridget Monihan) is excellent. Anyway the transfer I saw in HD is excellent and I figure the same goes for the Blu-ray version of this film. Recommended for Cage enthusiasts!! May 20, 2008

Superb Cautionary Tale

This is what happens when you create a fight, but won't accept responsibility for your actions. Nicolas Cage plays a gunrunner who will sell any weapon to anyone-all under the table so that the major arms selling countries like the US have plausible denial when wars begin. This movie works on many levels, as a tale of misbegotten fortune, a political thriller, and action, action, action. Some humor too. Well rounded, reality-based and attracive, this is a super buy. May 10, 2008

When Will Hollywood Make Good Movies Again?

Nick Cage's 2006 drama "Lord of War" collapses into oblivion the notion that contemporary Hollywood makes interesting movies. Although Cage gives this plot-less dud an admirable (sometimes funny-sometimes serious) performance. This anti-gun movie trips over itself to become anti-movie movie.

In almost everyway this movie misses the mark trying to make a point. There are so many poignant opportunities but, alas, all are ignored. The producers simply didn't get an idea. Also, there is hardly anything original with "Lord of War" (same old guns are bad clichés, the usual Africa is only a place of war and AIDs, and the typical American laws and authorities must be ignored for good to prevail, blah, blah, blah...). Is Cage really this anti-American?

Everyone knows arms dealing is bad, so why not address issues that will help to end it? This movie doesn't say anything except that the evil United States is the world's largest arms merchant. One is left to wonder, because a plot doesn't ensue to bring home any point, "so what?"

It seems that the American motion picture industry has lost it way. Too bad, there are a huge variety of original opportunities for screenplays. People want to go to the movies. But, with odd flicks like this one emerging, there's no theater-going incentive.

Don't bother with "Lord of War"... Cage is much better in his other recent work (National Treasure 1 & 2, etc). Someone tell me, when will Hollywood make good movies again?
April 19, 2008

Eye Opening!

True to life portrayal of what takes place in the "underground world" while everyone else goes about their suburban business. Here the movie shows us how the "arms dealing" involves the politician, suburbian housewife, immigrants and poor youths living in developing countries. We get to see who does most of the work, who benefits and the danger it involves for those at the less powerful end of the equation. I can't quite call this entertainment....nothing to laugh about here. The five stars are for the acting (Nicolas Cage rocks) and the story telling. April 10, 2008

More reviews at Amazon.com ...