Netflix's latest release, 'Land of Bad,' has quickly climbed to the top of the U.S. streaming charts since its debut on July 18. Directed by William Eubank, known for 'Underwater,' the military thriller follows the U.S. Army Delta Air Force on a mission to rescue a CIA asset in the Philippines.
As the team faces an ambush by the local militia Abu Sayyaf, Sergeant JJ Kinney emerges as the sole survivor. With his survival dependent on Captain Eddie Grimm's drone pilot skills, the tension escalates as they navigate hostile territory towards safety.
The star-studded cast includes Russell Crowe, Liam Hemsworth, Luke Hemsworth, Ricky Whistle, Milo Ventimiglia, and more. Ventimiglia, drawing from his military connections, expressed his commitment to honoring those in uniform through his role in the film.
Inspiration Behind 'Land of Bad'
While 'Land of Bad' is a work of fiction, director Eubank drew inspiration from real-world elements. The film's concept originated during the filming of 'The Signal' in 2014, evolving to explore the dynamics between drone pilots and ground operators.
Although the movie is not based on a true story, Eubank incorporated elements grounded in reality, such as consulting with drone pilots and JTAC instructors from Fort Irwin. The film's focus shifted to emphasize the relationships among the characters rather than solely the technological aspects.
Box Office Success and Critical Reception
'Land of Bad' hit theaters on February 16, 2024, grossing $4.6 million domestically and $6.9 million worldwide. The film has garnered a 65% critics score and an impressive 94% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, showcasing its appeal to viewers.
Streaming on Netflix
Now available for streaming on Netflix, 'Land of Bad' offers viewers an intense military action experience. The film's blend of fictional storytelling with realistic elements has resonated with audiences, contributing to its success on the streaming platform.
For those intrigued by military thrillers and action-packed narratives, 'Land of Bad' presents a compelling watch that combines adrenaline-pumping sequences with character-driven storytelling.
