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The Pentagon Wars (1998)

Rate: 9
Viewed: 8/23

8/23: Not exactly a comedy, The Pentagon Wars is an eye-opener of how the U.S. military wastes taxpayers' money.

Based on United States Air Force Colonel James G. Burton's book The Pentagon Wars: Reformers Challenge the Old Guard, it's a description of what went on during the Bradley Fighting Vehicle project. The tank in works is essentially a useless piece of shit that will kill its own soldiers if approved. Those behind the project did everything possible to push it through, so they could earn promotions and higher pay grades.

While watching the film, I became alarmed and disturbed at the same time and thought of the soldiers placing their trust in a dangerous military equipment they would handle. They're supposed to be protected, not inadvertently killed. Then, Cary Elwes just did it by giving the Phil speech at the barracks near the end, illustrating my point.

The performances are superb. Kelsey Grammer and Cary Elwes stand out the most. I hate the former's character while the latter plays a hero. It ultimately cost him his job because he did the right thing. I've seen this all the time at work, and it's disgusting.

All in all, The Pentagon Wars is a fine, overlooked military movie.

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