12 Strong (2018) is a gripping war drama based on the incredible true story of Operation Horse Soldiers, the first U.S. Special Forces team deployed to Afghanistan in the immediate aftermath of the September 11 attacks. The film follows Captain Mitch Nelson (Chris Hemsworth) and his team of eleven Green Berets as they partner with Afghan warlord General Abdul Rashid Dostum (Navid Negahban) to fight the Taliban in the harsh terrain of northern Afghanistan. What makes their mission particularly remarkable is their unconventional warfare tactics, often fighting on horseback against modern armored vehicles and entrenched positions.

Director Nicolai Fuglsig delivers intense, visceral battle sequences that effectively convey the chaos and brutality of modern combat, while also taking time to develop the camaraderie and psychological strain among the soldiers. Chris Hemsworth delivers a compelling performance that moves beyond his action-hero persona, portraying a leader burdened by responsibility. The supporting cast, including Michael Shannon and Michael Peña, add depth and authenticity to the ensemble.

While 12 Strong follows some familiar war movie conventions, its unique historical context and focus on unconventional warfare set it apart. The film serves as both a tribute to the soldiers' bravery and an exploration of the complex early days of the Afghanistan conflict. For viewers interested in modern military history, character-driven action, or true stories of extraordinary courage under fire, 12 Strong offers a compelling and often overlooked chapter in recent history that's well worth watching.