Floated2 Basic has an interesting plot and premise, as well as decent enough film editing, and acting. The film is full of plot twists in the end, where it becomes more interesting as the film goes along. Basic has been panned by critics but in several ways is quite underrated and overall intriguing and an entertaining drama thriller. Though we have seen films as this before, Basic doesn't quite follow the same route. In the end, the pieces will keep you guessing as an overall film tone.

FlashCallahan An Army sergeant takes six of his troops on a training mission into the Colombian jungle and only survive. When the rescue mission arrives, they see one soldier killing another and carrying a wounded comrade. As the interrogation begins, the soldier refuses to talk to anyone other than another Ranger. The investigating officer protests, but her commanding officer brings in a former Ranger and current DEA agent to help. The agent is currently on suspension from DEA for allegedly accepting a bribe.....Basic is all over the shop with style over substance. The film has so many cuts and edits, and even more flashbacks, you forget about the actual story halfway through the second act, and just enjoy Travolta in one of his last, quite good roles.He really thinks that this is groundbreaking stuff, and it is almost a pseudo-sequel to The General's Daughter.So the film consists of him and Nielsen going back and forth talking to the survivors, whom each give a different story.The flashbacks consist of Jackson at this shouty best, in the pouring rain, threatening Giovanni Ribisi.Sexuality of some of the troops is hinted for the betrayal, but his is soon forgotten about in favour of Travolta trying to look buff in his tight black T-shirt, when in fact, he looks like he could do with a good dose of laxatives.It's short, and fun to watch, thanks to the performances and the direction, but the story really goes nowhere, and the ending is just laughable.

Somesh Chandra Mathur All I'd like to say is that this movie sucks on so many levels. John Travolta as usual was very charming in his portrayal of an ex marine, current super Investigator. Samuel L. Jackson too gives a short but powerful performance as a cold military instructor. It was a gigantic waste of my time. I can understand movies which tell the stories from different people's perspectives like A Few Good Men. But the sheer number of characters in this movie makes it nearly impossible to keep note of who actually died and who didn't. I had completely lost all interest in the plot by the time the movie ended. Ending - Disappointing !

edwagreen This film is not exactly "Rashomon" of 1951.Samuel L. Jackson portrays a vicious sergeant who really takes it out on one of his officers. Set in Panama during a hurricane, this film depicts what has occurred during a training session.Several different versions attempt to explain what has happened to Jackson and some of the recruits on this session.John Travolta portrays a DEA agent who had left the army as an interrogator. Every time that Travolta, who has been called back to interrogate, seems to find answers, there are still more and more questions posed to him and the rest of the cast.Is there an honorable person? This is what the film tries to prove as we learn about drug dealing among the various cartels in the area.The ending is absolutely ridiculous. You just can't trust anyone.