War epic, based on the true story, of U.S. soldiers set on a 30 minute mission to capture Somalian warlords. When a helicopter goes down, troops try to protect the crash site and are soon consumed by enemy militia in a 24 hour siege.

Mark Bowden's novel is adapted here with the inclusion of a couple added characters, but the gist of the story still holds true. Even if taken as partially fictionalized, Black Hawk Down gets across the horrors of war and the momentum that must carry weary soldiers through it.

It is the momentum of the film that was most striking; the quickly escalating events that led to so much bloodshed are enough to give one pause.

Artistically, director Ridley Scott delivers another great effort in filmmaking, every scene is framed nicely with edits and scene cuts finely placed. Hartnett, McGregor and cast do well also. They're not just men running with guns, but men with newly found purpose in life. Of special note is Eric Bana as a rough 'n' tumble sergeant and Jason Isaacs as a captain trying to motivate his men.

An impressive film on nearly all levels, Black Hawk Down is a war film sure to please all seeking a little military movie mayhem, but also those who may look a little deeper.

Directed by Ridley Scott.