Elite Squad: The Enemy Within
Portuguese- Crime Drama
Rated “R”
Runtime- 113 min.
dir. Jose Padilha
I probably should have guessed from the full title of the movie (the “Enemy Within” part) that this was actually a sequel. It was enjoyable anyway, as there isn’t too much reliance on the previous installment to fill in the story and characters.
Story/Writing: 2/2
A lot of good turns and neat ideas. The runtime is a little long, but it never feels like it’s outstaying its welcome. As I mentioned, there isn’t much backstory needed, as enough is filled in through exposition. I also appreciated the lack of male chauvinism (A.K.A. dick-waving competitions) which has pervaded many action films lately.
Acting: 1.5/2
The large cast size makes it hard for anyone to stand out in particular, but their effort as a whole is commendable.
Photography/Set: 1.5/2
The sets got a little confusing during some of the faster-paced scenes, but the sets were pretty cool.
Sound/FX: 2/2
Good gunfights, nothing too over the top. The violence and politics occupy two separate streams in the movie, so you can enjoy the gun play without thinking too hard.
Misc: 1.5/2
Overall, satisfying. There are nits to be picked, but why bother?
VERDICT: 8.5/10
Enjoyable for most adult audiences.
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