R | 1h 27m | Action, Thriller | 2025
War movies have always been a favorite of mine. My time in the military undoubtedly shaped that passion. There’s something irresistible about films that highlight teamwork, loyalty, camaraderie, and the unwavering “leave no man behind” ethic. For me, some resonate on a deeper level, especially those set in locations where I’ve served.
Steve Barnett’s gripping military thriller “Valiant One” is one of those films. Set near the DMZ (demilitarized zone) between North and South Korea, it follows an Army team that crash-lands in hostile North Korean territory.
Having been stationed just miles from the DMZ myself, the setting struck a personal chord. But this isn’t a movie just for veterans; it’s a gripping, well-crafted action thriller that fans of the genre are sure to appreciate.
A Doomed Mission
Things kick into gear when Brockman and his team are sent to locate and repair a malfunctioning device near the DMZ. Under the leadership of Chief Milner (Ronald Patrick Thompson) and Master Sgt. Chris Lebold (Callan Mulvey), they board a helicopter to begin the mission.Apprehension grows with the sudden inclusion of civilian intelligence specialist Josh Weaver (Desmin Borges), whose presence raises doubts among the team; they worry he might prove more hindrance than help.
Initially, everything seems to be running smoothly. Then a sudden storm forces the squad to abort the mission. On the return flight, disaster strikes as their helicopter is overwhelmed by the treacherous weather and crash-lands in North Korea.
Leadership Emerges Amid Danger
What really fuels the narrative is the clash of personalities within the squad. Each character has their own motivations and flaws. But, much like in real military life, they are forced to set aside their differences to achieve a larger goal—the mission. This mission quickly evolves from a routine device check to a harrowing fight for survival.
The film also delves into military dynamics that, while familiar to veterans like me, will resonate with civilians as well. It captures the struggles of an untested leader dealing with criticism from those under his leadership.
Brockman’s journey to leadership is at the heart of “Valiant One” and is handled with surprising nuance. When tragedy forces him to take charge, he’s unprepared and uncertain, especially without field training to lean on. A particularly touching moment sees the incapacitated Master Sgt. Lebold passing to him a cherished family heirloom pistol, a symbol of trust and lineage from generations of his Army Special Forces soldier family.
With the stern yet supportive guidance of Selby, Brockman gradually finds his footing. His transformation feels authentic: It’s messy, filled with doubt, but ultimately rewarding as he grows into his role as a natural leader.
The film delivers several nail-biting sequences, including a tense standoff in a North Korean farmhouse, where the squad hides in a barn only to be discovered by the family. Guns are drawn, and the squad looks to Lee, the Korean-American soldier, to diffuse the situation. Their hope is dashed when Lee reveals his Korean language skills are almost nonexistent, adding uncertainty to an already precarious scenario.
The action is refreshingly grounded, steering clear of the overblown theatrics often seen in military films. There are no giant fireballs or invincible one-man armies here. Instead, the combat feels authentic and tactical, emphasizing teamwork and the squad’s interdependence.
Each soldier’s survival depends on their ability to work together, highlighting the military ethos that a team is only as strong as its weakest link. Running off solo like a one-man army (as we see in many popular first-person shooter video games) isn’t an act of heroism. It’s a dangerous liability.
The film carries positive undertones of patriotism and faith, values that hold great importance in any healthy republic. The film doesn’t just thrill; it reminds us of the strength found in unity, good intentions, and a shared purpose.
“Valiant One” succeeds not only as an immersive military thriller, but also as a story of personal growth and camaraderie. With deft direction and compelling performances, the film brings its characters’ struggles and triumphs to life, offering a unique addition to the genre.
