Review #21 | "Whiskey, Tango, Foxtrot"(2016)

Tina Fey always impresses us with her charming comedy and endearing wit. "Whiskey, Tango, Foxtrot" utilizes her skills as a comedian and actress to great success, but the blend of the two makes for discreetly muffled storytelling.

"Whiskey" takes the media's view of the Afghanistan war to a new perspective. Often times, we as viewers only see the product of their roles in war coverage, and only when tragedy strikes do we see the full extent of their job requirements. Tina Fey and Margot Robbie give dynamic performances exploring women's roles in the media and on the battlefield. We are reminded that wars are not only fought with guns.

Romance in "Whiskey" doesn't drive the plotline, a middle-aged woman still trying to find a purpose for her life, but emphasizes the stakes of everyone in a militarized zone. Lust turns to respect and quiet love, even if circumstances, including bettering one's self, keep people apart. "Whiskey" emphasizes that it is okay to grow up and apart, no matter what age you are.

Perhaps the directors couldn't make up their minds whether or not to utilize Fey's comedic or dramatic talents, because either could work in this movie. There are comedic moments in the film, but the development of Alfred Molina's character with Fey's character is one of the biggest sources of confusion. His character could just as easily be painted as mentally unstable rather than a clown. The concept of this film, retaining the same screenplay, could mirror the likes of "Zero, Dark, Thirty." The conflict in the film can certainly support a more grim interpretation while retaining the comedic bits. I think if Ridley Scott had directed "Whiskey" it could have the same dramedy vibe as "The Martian."

Overall, "Whiskey" is an enjoyable film with great rewatch potential, but the lines between comedy and drama are mixed and also has the potential to create an aura of chaotic catharsis for the audience. However, I would highly recommend this film for the excellent story and great performances.

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Rated R

Directed by Glenn Ficarra and John Requa. Based on the book "The Taliban Shuffle: Strange Days in Afghanistan and Pakistan" by Kim Barker. Starring Tina Fey, Marhot Robbie, and Martin Freeman.