13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi

1/15/20162h 24m

Theatrical Release (US)

~ When everything went wrong, six men had the courage to do what was right. ~

Overview:

An American Ambassador is killed during an attack at a U.S. compound in Libya as a security team struggles to make sense out of the chaos.

Director:

Michael Bay

Status:

Released

Language:

English

Buget:

$50,000,000.00

Revenue:

$69,411,370.00

Key words:

central intelligence agency (cia)
based on novel or book
libya
assault rifle
grave
mercenary
melancholy
heroism
biography
based on true story
explosion
biting
american abroad
death
blunt
mourning
questioning
angry
aggressive
frantic
grim
reflective
u.s. ambassador
complex
anxious
cautionary
provocative
factual
critical
incredulous
tense
intense
bitter
appreciative
baffled
bewildered
bold
commanding
defiant
dignified
disapproving
disdainful
disheartening
enraged
foreboding
frustrated
harsh
informative
scathing
sincere
sympathetic
tragic
wry

Cast

John Krasinski

~ as ~

Jack Silva

James Badge Dale

~ as ~

Tyrone 'Rone' Woods

Dominic Fumusa

~ as ~

John 'Tig' Tiegen

Max Martini

~ as ~

Mark 'Oz' Geist

Pablo Schreiber

~ as ~

Kris 'Tanto' Paronto

Matt Letscher

~ as ~

Chris Stevens

Alexia Barlier

~ as ~

Sona Jillani

David Costabile

~ as ~

Bob

David Denman

~ as ~

Dave 'Boon' Benton

Payman Maadi

~ as ~

Amahl

View full cast & crew

Reviews (4)

Reno
Written 9 year(s) ago
8

In an unfriendly environment they got 13 long hours to survive and resist the attack.

It is an action-thriller-war version of the 'Argo'. Based on the true story where the most of the film was the 13 hour long armed battle event took place in Libya, 2012. I remember the middle-east's protest over the western films, this story is set in the same time when the islamic terrorists targeted the American diplomatic compounds in Benghazi, but six brave men stood and fought against the uprising.

It is an American patriotic film, but because of the hatred over their own countrymen Michael Bay, they're surely missing a nearly a war masterpiece. The rest of the world saw it as a fine film and appreciated that. If you haven't seen it yet, I say just don't ignore it. It was a well made realistic war film, the actors were amazing and the scenes were suspenseful to spectacular. Definitely one of the best in this theme.

It was simply focused on the armed conflict between the two forces, so it won't reasons out us how and where it all began, because that might take another film to tell the tale. That's really a very clever writing. In this 150 minute long film, the first act was full of characters and story development. Then begins the gun fight that commences from the dust hours till the dawn breaks out. With many twists in the narration during confrontation, surely not a film to be missed.

8/10
Gimly
Written 9 year(s) ago
4
If you fancy yourself a big swingin' dick yank, then I'd recommend you watch 13 Hours, but of course, you already have.

I can move past the xenophobia and jingoism pretty easily, even the typical Bay tropes don't ruin a movie for me, but what I find difficult to abide is boredom, and with 13 Hours, I personally found that in spades.

Though it doesn't make a whole lot of sense, though I didn't care about any of the characters, and though I am giving this film a negative review, I can still say it's Michael Bay's best work in years.

Final rating:★★ - Definitely not for me, but I sort of get the appeal.
Ricardo Oliveira
Written 2 year(s) ago
7
"13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi" is a 2016 war film directed by Michael Bay and based on the non-fiction book "13 Hours" by Mitchell Zuckoff. The film recounts the true events of the attack on the American diplomatic compound in Benghazi, Libya, on September 11, 2012. Starring John Krasinski, James Badge Dale, and Dominic Fumusa, the movie focuses on the six members of a security team who valiantly defended the compound against overwhelming odds.

Michael Bay is known for his expertise in crafting intense and visually striking action sequences, and "13 Hours" is no exception. The firefight scenes are visceral, chaotic, and capture the intensity of the real-life events they depict. The use of practical effects and minimal CGI enhances the realism.

The film features impressive cinematography by Dion Beebe, who captures the harsh, war-torn landscape of Benghazi with gritty realism. The use of handheld cameras during action sequences adds to the immersive and chaotic feel of the combat.

The cast delivers solid performances, with John Krasinski, known for his comedic roles, convincingly portraying a seasoned and determined military contractor. James Badge Dale and Dominic Fumusa also shine in their respective roles, bringing authenticity to their characters.

The film successfully conveys a sense of camaraderie and brotherhood among the security team members. It emphasizes the dedication and sacrifices made by individuals in service to their country, fostering a strong sense of patriotism.

While the movie focuses on the immediate events surrounding the Benghazi attack, it largely avoids delving into the broader political context that led to the situation. Some viewers may find the lack of a comprehensive geopolitical background unsatisfying.

The characters, while based on real individuals, are at times simplified and stereotyped. This can lead to a lack of emotional depth, making it challenging for the audience to connect with them on a personal level.

With a runtime of over two hours, the film may feel lengthy to some viewers. The pacing, especially in the first half, can be slow as the narrative establishes the characters and setting. This may test the patience of those expecting a faster-paced action thriller.

"13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi" is a compelling and intense portrayal of a tragic real-life event. While it excels in its action sequences and captures the heroism of the individuals involved, it falls short in providing a nuanced exploration of the political complexities surrounding the Benghazi attack. The film, however, serves as a tribute to the bravery of the men who fought against overwhelming odds. Rating: 7/10

Written and Reviewed by RSOliveira
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tmdb51616167
Written 1 year(s) ago
7
Critics have labeled this movie as rotten, but I find their justification questionable. There are countless classic films that are considered phenomenal and amazing, yet they are criticized harshly. This movie, in particular, is eye-opening as it sheds light on the chain of command involved in sending rescue missions.

Despite Hillary Clinton being blamed for the deaths of individuals in the film, it is evident that the power lies with Congress. The movie highlights this, yet she continues to be the target of blame.

Setting aside the controversies, this film is intense, action-packed, and emotionally gripping. I strongly believe it is worth watching and should not be dismissed as rotten.