LAND OF BAD
SYNOPSIS: Starring Russell Crowe and Liam Hemsworth, a covert Special Forces operation in the South Philippines spirals into a brutal 48-hour battle for survival. When an elite extraction team is ambushed deep in enemy territory, rookie officer Kinney (Hemsworth) is left outnumbered but determined to leave no man behind. With an air strike closing in, Kinney’s only hope hinges on the guidance of Air Force drone pilot Reaper (Crowe), navigating unknowable danger where every move could be their last.
Director William Eubank gives audiences a high-octane story with outstanding performances in his new film LAND OF BAD. A spectacular cast, including Russell Crowe, Liam Hemsworth, and Milo Ventimiglia, takes viewers on a mission filled with twists and turns, action-packed thrills, and a genuine heart.
Chika Ikogwe gives Sergeant Nia Bransona a brilliant coolheadedness. She brings a nice rhythm as Crowe’s number two. Simply put, Ikoqwe makes the film better. Milo Ventimiglia plays Sugar. Serving as Master Sergeant and Delta Force team leader, his measured badass attitude feels incredibly authentic. He is a tremendous addition to the cast.
Liam Hemsworth is the rookie drone operator, Kinney. He exudes innocence, passion, and humanity. He easily carries the vast majority of screen time. Russell Crowe is Reaper, a veteran Air Force drone pilot. His chemistry with every single cast member is magic. He and Hemsworth share a strong bond. Crowe elevates each film he appears in. LAND OF BAD is no exception.
Handheld camera work gives the film a solid, immersive feel. Slow motion dynamics and augmented sound editing make your palms sweat. The pyrotechnician team displays every bit of explosive goodness.
Forty minutes in, LAND OF BAD switches lanes. The intensity ramps up as Reaper and Branson navigate Kinney to safety. Eubank and co-writer David Frigerio deliver a heart-pounding story of loyalty, determination, and trust. The screenplay’s evolution is applause-worthy. After a fifteen-minute setup, the plot shifts multiple times, never allowing the audience to be complacent. It is impressive for a genre that might get stale and cliche. I may have yelled, “Oh, Shit!” at the screen. No. I most certainly did. LAND OF BAD is undeniably entertaining and deserves a watch on a large screen with the highest-quality sound system.
Film Trailer: https://youtu.be/dKcHOR-V1G4
ONLY IN THEATERS: February 16
DIRECTOR: William Eubank
WRITER: David Frigerio, William Eubank
CAST: Liam Hemsworth, Russell Crowe, Luke Hemsworth, Ricky Whittle and Milo Ventimiglia
RUN TIME: 110 Minutes
RATING: Rated R for strong bloody violence and language throughout
GENRE: Action
DISTRIBUTOR: The Avenue
Film Website: www.landofbad.com
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Kate Lyn Sheil (
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