Stop-Loss

After a week with no additions to the LA Times recommended movies list, Kenneth Turan comes up with a recommendation for the movie "Stop-Loss" which tells the story of an American soldier who resists a so-called "stop-loss" order to return to Iraq. The movie, by the way, is the first by Kimberly Peirce since her movie "Boys Don't Cry".

Four thousand Americans and counting have died in Iraq, and the litany of unsuccessful films about that part of the world -- "The Situation," "Redacted," "Rendition," "The Kingdom," "In The Valley of Elah" among others -- is growing as well. Do not add “Stop-Loss” to that list. "Stop-Loss" is a film that does it right. Read the review of Stop-Loss by the LA Times' movie reviewer Kenneth Turan

Synopsis of Stop-Loss
Decorated Iraq war hero Sgt. Brandon King makes a celebrated return to his small Texas hometown following his tour of duty. Brandon tries to resume the life he left behind with the help and support of his family and his best friend, Steve Shriver, who served with him in Iraq.

Alongside their war-time buddies, Brandon and Steve try to make peace with civilian life. Then, against Brandon's will, the Army orders him back to duty in Iraq. This upends Brandon's entire world. The conflict into which he is thrown tests everything he believes in: the bond of family, the loyalty of friendship, the limits of love, and the value of honor.

Opened March 28, 2008 Runtime: 1 hr. 53 min.
Rated R for graphic violence and pervasive language
Cast: Ryan Phillippe, Abbie Cornish, Channing Tatum, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Timothy Olyphant Director: Kimberly Peirce
Genres: Psychological Drama, Drama, War, Iraq War

Showtimes for Stop-Loss in your area from Fandango.com