Releases in the frostier months don’t typically have a lot of bite, but Land Of Bad is an exception to the rule.

Co-writer and director William Eubank provides some great set-pieces and combat scenes in this one about an army team who are ambushed overseas, and the drone pilot who’s fighting to get them home safe.

The major distinction lies in the incredible cast. Without them, this one would assuredly be destined for B-movie sentiments and a VOD release. But the with a mid-sized budget, it looks great and has plenty of draws.

A clean-shaven Liam Hemsworth stars, and he’s paired with a commanding, relatively-quiet Russell Crowe as a no-nonsense drone pilot tasked with saving the lives of the squadron remotely.

Other stars Milo Ventimiglia, Chika Ikogwe, brother Luke Hemsworth, Lincoln Lewis, and Ricky Whittle make up a strong supporting cast.

War films typically fall into two camps — Somber or action-packed, and yet this one manages to be thought-provoking and provide enough firepower for genre fans.

It’s better-than-expected, and definitely an enjoyable thrill ride.

3.5/5 Stars