Code Name: Geronimo (2012)

In an arduous process of killing Osama, which short version and spoiler ending are known to any with internet or television, Code Name: Geronimo works better as a documentary than actual thriller. Unfortunately, it tries too much to give motivation or patriotism until the extend of overselling its bravado. Some familiar faces spice up the movie as plasters for clearer flaws.

The outlook is very dusty, not much cinematic filter involved and it does a good job on giving a natural look. Think of it like Bourne franchise without the crisp camera effect or a FPS video games' campaign. It trails the development of searching for Osama and finally the execution of the operation. William Fichtner as the leading agent has a convincing performance, he provides the movie with authority figure. Robert Knepper (T-Bag in Prison Break) is average in the role, he's a good actor, but not all of his roles are that interesting, this one included.

As the matter of fact, everyone seems so obvious. From the matrimonially challenged squad leader, potty mouth gunner, and brass womanizers, they are all predictable as army clichés and not much more. Xzibit gives a bit of star quality for mainstream audience, he's not bad but still trapped in grunt role. Half of the movie is the intelligent acquiring process, both within the CIA and the two field agents. These are not as entertaining, and lacking of tension. Their life-threatening situation in enemy's territory or the risky decision making in the headquarters could be more thrilling and better paced.

Some situations are highlighted with realistic combat, these parts are video game- like, although the camera take is a bit confusing. You have continuously changing views from shooter to shooter, but the action is frantically fast and isn't choreographed that well. It results in a frenzy, albeit it's maybe what real combat is, but it's too frazzled to differentiate who does what to whom. Taking its long preceding preparation into account, it's quite a shame that it doesn't end in a more riveting way.

It should have focused primarily as a documentary than tried to adapt itself into a semi blockbuster, which it is not.