AWOL-72

Released in 2015, AWOL-72 is a gripping, high-intensity action thriller expertly starring Luke Goss, Heather Roop, and RZA. Set against the backdrop of a complex and interconnected web of military espionage, crime syndicates, and covert government agencies, AWOL-72 personalizes the narrative through its central character, an AWOL marine, portrayed by the charismatic Luke Goss.

Luke Goss plays Conrad Miller, a marine gone AWOL (Absent Without Official Leave). This marine forms the cornerstone of the thrilling plot. Wavering between villain and hero, Conrad finds himself embroiled in an intricate cat-and-mouse chase after discovering incriminating information that both the CIA and Russian secret services want. This circumstantial knowledge positions him as a high-value target and suggests broader global implications if it falls into the wrong hands.

Heather Roop and RZA convincingly essay their roles, each entwined within the narrative's twisted threads. Roop portrays Laura, a woman wrapped up in this dangerous game, whose life is threatened at every juncture. Her character brings an emotional depth, helping to maintain the story’s pulse while adding a touch of vulnerability. RZA, on the other hand, sheds his rapper's image to don the role of a ruthless assassin relentlessly hunting down Conrad. His performance stands out, painting the character with shades of brutality and tenacious determination.

The movie, directed by Christian Sesma, is a visual feast, capturing the sense of urgency associated with military pursuits, complete with electrifying car chases, fierce gun battles, and detailed urban landscapes that serve as silent spectators to the unfolding drama. The fast-paced narrative consistently keeps the viewers on their toes, maintaining the intrigue till its climactic end. Sesma’s tactical staging contrasts the mundanity of everyday life with life-threatening situations, testing the resilience of the characters and showcasing their resourcefulness, courage, and determination.

The screenplay by Cecil Chambers does justice to genre expectations, harmoniously combining intense action sequences with more relaxed breathers that allow the plot, character backgrounds, and relationships to be fully explored. Each character, be it the determined Laura, the ruthless assassin, or the embattled marine, is unique and contributes significantly to the plot progression. This balance of characters and events makes AWOL-72 a riveting watch.

The cinematography, credited to Anthony J. Rickert-Epstein, deserves a special mention. It fully leverages the film's dynamic settings, presenting an array of aesthetically pleasing visuals that enhance the suspenseful atmosphere and implacability of the chase. The screeching tires and smoking barrels in the gripping car chases, zoomed close-ups of the characters in moments of intense decision-making or stark fear, all amplify the thrill of the movie's premise.

The film's soundtrack plays its part considerably in setting the mood throughout the movie. Whether it's during high-speed chases, stark moments of confrontation, or when characters make critical decisions, the tension is heightened by apt background scores. In addition, the subtle sound effects in the backdrop, be it escaping breaths or ticking clocks, offer depth to the scene and bridge the gap between the viewer and the movie's world.

AWOL-72 also offers commentary on broader sociopolitical dynamics, inspecting the influence of covert agencies over individual lives and institutions. Through Conrad's story, the movie provides glimpses into the hardships, dilemmas, and challenges that these men and women in combat face, injected subtly into the narrative.

AWOL-72 excels in creating a high-octane thriller, replete with compelling characters and a dynamic plot that resonates with fans of the genre. From stunning visuals, superior performances, and a taut narrative, it does an excellent job of holding the viewers' attention from the opening scene to the end credits, making it a worthy addition to any action fanatic's movie selection. This action-thriller may not reinvent the genre, but it delivers what it promises – a solid, intense, and action-packed cinematic experience.