Marilyn R.

"Bloodshot," starring Vin Diesel, begins as a seemingly typical action film, following the familiar narrative of a man’s devastating loss fueling his quest for vengeance. However, it quickly evolves into an enthralling spectacle with intriguing high-tech AI and advanced nanotechnology. Vin Diesel's character, Ray Garrison, fits the mold of the invincible hero—a trope Diesel has mastered in previous roles like in the "XXX" series. This familiarity sets the stage for viewers, but "Bloodshot" swiftly shifts gears, propelling the audience into a whirlwind of action-packed twists and groundbreaking technological advancements. As a veteran, I found the military scenes almost humorous in their depiction, lacking the authenticity and gravity of real combat situations. Hollywood often over-exaggerates military combat, presenting it in an over-the-top manner. In reality, combat is filled with uncertainty and high stakes. The notion of an untouchable, heroic figure is a comforting fantasy but far from the truth. Real military operations are fraught with unpredictability; every door knocked down could lead to danger. For those seeking a more accurate portrayal of military life and combat, I recommend "Walk in My Combat Boots" by James Patterson and Matt Eversmann, offering a stark, honest look at the true, often brutal experiences of soldiers on the front lines. Despite the unrealistic military portrayals, "Bloodshot" excels in its depiction of a near-future world where super soldiers enhanced with nanotechnology are not far from reality. This concept adds depth to the storyline and sparks curiosity about the potential of such technologies in real life. The film expertly balances the line between science fiction and plausible future innovations, making the narrative engaging. The narrative of "Bloodshot" can be likened to a blend of "Universal Soldier," Bucky Barnes' Winter Soldier from the Marvel universe, and Dr. Vincent Keller from "Beauty and the Beast." Like in "Universal Soldier," the protagonist is a soldier enhanced by cutting-edge technology, facing internal and external battles. Ray Garrison’s journey mirrors Bucky Barnes' struggle with manipulated memories and advanced combat abilities, while the storyline of Dr. Vincent Keller closely parallels Ray’s transformation and emotional turmoil. The special effects and CGI are top-notch, with slow-motion sequences and animation elevating the action scenes. The meticulous attention to detail makes the film's high-tech elements feel strikingly real, drawing the audience deeper into this evolving world. The strategic filming techniques further enhance the immersive experience, showcasing director David S. F. Wilson's adeptness at blending dynamic action with intricate storytelling. Vin Diesel delivers a performance that aligns perfectly with his established action-hero persona, yet "Bloodshot" allows him to explore a more nuanced character. His portrayal of Ray Garrison brings a sense of raw intensity and vulnerability, making his journey from vengeance to self-discovery captivating and relatable. "Bloodshot" is a fantastic addition to the genre of AI-driven action films. Its combination of thrilling action sequences, innovative technology, and a compelling storyline makes it a thoroughly entertaining watch. The film hooks you from the start and keeps you engaged with its impressive realism and ever-evolving narrative. Despite the less realistic military scenes, whether you're a fan of Vin Diesel or fascinated by future technology, "Bloodshot" is a must-see that delivers on both fronts.