No single element is blazing or transcendent, but this is a very soundly constructed directorial debut by the Oscar-nominated writer of American Sniper. Everything is tasteful, sturdy, and engaging, from the committed acting to the crisp photography to the sensitive, non-sensational way its various themes and concerns (PTSD, Veterans Affairs bureaucracy) are handled. There is even a new, appropriately doleful Bruce Springsteen song playing over the end credits.

This year, Miles Teller turned in two very fine performances in two very fine commercial films for adults: this and Only the Brave. Not very many people saw either, unfortunately.

B+

This was a pretty damn solid movie and like David said its unfortunate more people didn't go out to see it. Granted, I haven't seen Only the Brave yet, but Miles Teller has already proven to me that he is a very capable, versatile actor and this film is no different. I appreciated how they handled the PTSD element, and the overall military influence/involvement was well done. I'd definitely say its tasteful while not being too over the top or unrealistic. The only problems I had with the movie was the subplot about his friend and the gangsters that came in later which didn't really gel with the rest of the movie IMO and I'm still not sold on Amy Schumer as a serious, dramatic actress, but thankfully she isn't in the movie long enough to ruin it.

B+