Patriots Day

January 13, 2017

Jays Rating:
Actors: /

Peter Berg directs the powerful docudrama Patriots Day which is based on the Boston Marathon bombing in 2013. This film begins on April 15, 2013, as people are preparing for the Boston Marathon. After several bombs explode near the finish line, the manhunt begins immediately. Police Sergeant Tommy Saunders (Mark Wahlberg) arrives along with first responders to assist the wounded. Police Commissioner, Ed Davis (John Goodman) coordinates the agencies who will handle the investigation to determine exactly what happened and who is responsible. A couple of law enforcement officers who are involved are Lead FBI agent, Richard Deslauriers, (Kevin Bacon) and Watertown Police Sergeant, Jeffrey Pugliese (J.K. Simmons) who was later involved in a deadly firefight with the self-proclaimed terrorists. The story not only shows the meticulous investigation by the police agencies, but we also see the planning leading up to the bombing by the two brothers, Tamerlan Tsarnaev (Themo Melikidze) and Dzhokhar Tsarnaev (Alex Wolff) and their view of the manhunt to capture them. This is a powerful film that shows how tragedy can bring out the best in people. Yes, this is the Hollywood version of the Boston Marathon Bombing and because of that, they add some scenes that are a little over the top. There are police agency arguments that seem a little exaggerated. I had to roll my eyes -yes, I did – when Mark Wahlberg’s character seemed to show up at every major event that happened that week. This was a somber movie and the music was equally as somber and worked perfectly with a dark story. The acting is outstanding by the all-star cast and since it was a true story, it was even more moving. I’m giving this fantastic film a B + rating.

This movie has been given an R rating by the MPAA

Although I am blind, I can appreciate a good movie as well as sighted individuals. I rely more on a good story line than special effects.