Opposing Force

Opposing Force, directed by Eric Karson and released in 1986, is a suspenseful military action drama set during the height of the Cold War. The film boasts a strong core cast including Tom Skerritt, Lisa Eichhorn, and Anthony Zerbe, all of whom perform admirably to ground this adrenaline-fueled story with their convincing portrayals.

Renowned actor Tom Skerritt, recognized for his work in Alien and Top Gun, leads the film in an unforgettable role as Major Logan Shepherd. He plays a dedicated and principled military officer tasked with leading a team through an intensive army survival training program. Logan's character showcases Skerritt's ability to present a strong-willed protagonist while also encompassing the nuanced subtleties and emotional depth that his character develops throughout the story.

Opposite Skerritt is Lisa Eichhorn as Sergeant Delby Powell, which is a substantial role for a woman in a predominantly male-driven film. Her character breaks the traditional stereotypes of the time, showing strength, determination and a keen intellect. She is not just a token female character but an equal player in the dangerous game of survival. Her interaction with Skerritt's Logan Shepherd shapes much of the story's dramatic tension, culminating in an unexpected alliance.

Anthony Zerbe's portrayal of the sadistic Colonel Cletus Powers, a man with a twisted sense of authority and control, provides an engaging antagonist. Zerbe delivers a chilling performance that leaves its mark in every scene he is in. His hardened exterior and dramatic military persona demonstrate the actor's immense talent and versatility.

The plot of Opposing Force centers on a group of American and NATO soldiers undergoing an intense military survival training course, run by the hard-as-nails Colonel Powers. The program, known as ‘The Selection,’ simulates a prisoner of war camp and conditions the soldiers to endure harsh realities of war and captivity. It's designed to test their limits both physically and psychologically, preparing them for worst-case scenarios on the battlefield.

However, as Logan Shepherd and his team enter the program, they soon find something's chillingly wrong. The training takes a horrifying turn as it crosses ethical boundaries and enters the realm of actual human abuse, torture, and harsh inhumanness to its participants. Far from being a simulation, 'The Selection' becomes a grueling battle for survival, testing the soldiers far beyond their training remits. Their resolve is challenged, and they are forced to rely on each other to confront and survive the programmed ordeal.

Opposing Force expertly balances the brutality of military training with underlying themes of camaraderie, leadership, and human spirit. The film showcases human strength and resilience through well-crafted moments of tension, fear, and survival. The multi-layered storyline presents intriguing questions about the ethics and morality of brutal training methods used in the military and their long-lasting mental effects on soldiers.

The cinematography captures the tense and claustrophobic atmosphere brilliantly. It sets the stage for the grueling survival game that the characters have to endure as part of 'The Selection.' A series of stunning visual sequences accentuated by high-stakes action scenes are integrated into the storyline to deliver tense and gripping moments. Karson's directorial contributions successfully utilise the actors' skills, the script's inherent tension, and the chilling setting to create a genuinely thrilling and thought-provoking film.

With its excellent ensemble cast, intricate plot, and a masterful blend of action and drama, Opposing Force offers a riveting cinematic experience. It explores the blurred lines between training and torture, challenging audiences to question the price of survival and the ethical boundaries of warfare preparation.

In conclusion, Opposing Force is not just your typical action movie. It's an intense drama that examines the lengths that humans will go to survive under extreme conditions. With top-notch performances and compelling storytelling, this film provides a thought-provoking exploration of the human spirit and resilience. It guarantees to leave viewers at the edge of their seats while prompting them to question the effects of military training on the soldiers' psychological state. Whether you're a fan of military dramas or action-packed survival stories, Opposing Force is a must-watch film.