Bravo Two Zero

Just released on DVD is the BBC's mid-90s adaptation of a "true" story of a group of British Soldiers in the First Gulf War. Its release at this time is questionable, as is its relevance, but star Sean Bean manages to deliver as well as always. Overshadowed by last year's cinematic 'Jarhead', this is clearly a lower-budget film, with a slightly detectable sense of hurried production; special effects are swept aside, with stock newsreel footage being used in its place. Nonetheless, the acting is good and the story engaging enough for war film fans. In hindsight, however, the warning in the finale of 'should there be another conflict' twists the meaning of the film somewhat by today's standards. [Graham McIntosh]