Directors: Glenn Ficara and John Requa
By Alex Watson
Those hoping for a light hearted war journalism satire might be surprised at the borderline serious tone of Whiskey Tango Foxtrot. Smartly directors Glenn Ficara and John Requa (the duo behind Crazy Stupid Love) find humor in the most bizarre of places. An impressive performance from Tina Fey also suggests that the comedian could maybe graduate to more serious roles in future. Though the most potent aspect of this picture is the portrayal of how living in the danger zone can be an addiction.
Kim Baker (Tina Fey) is a copywriter for an unnamed news outlet who is suddenly informed that she has been selected to be sent to Afghanistan to cover the war. At first struggling to adapt to the different set of ways and learning the ropes of journalism, Kim establishes friendships with reporters Tanya (Margot Robbie) and Iain (Martin Freeman). Soon her stories begin to gain more traction and she quickly becomes obsessed with getting a bigger story. However, in a land filled with danger, her desire will lead her into some dangerous paths.
Whiskey Tango Foxtrot isn't a movie written for laughs per minute and despite a slightly uneven tone, it gives a realistic depiction of life in wartime. Kim, at first, is disappointed to be sent to the 'forgotten war' as all big news outlets are covering Iraq. Particularly as she was selected because she one of the unmarried and childless staff. When she arrives in Afghanistan she is assigned a fixer Fahim (Christopher Abbott) and a Kiwi bodyguard Nic (Stephen Peacoke). There are usual awkward fist stumbles such as dealing with the blowing wind whilst attempting to conduct an interview. The moment she is taken on her first detail commanded by General Hollandek (Billy Bob Thornton), she become hooked on covering the war by watching Marine engage in a firefight with insurgents.
The fellow journalists she meets are quick to aid her and amidst the grimy halls where the journalists party and drugs and alcohol flow some charming deep bonds are made. Being one of the few females among the burned out veterans makes her a 'serious piece of ass' according to Tanya. The battle for affections between Scot journalist Iain and buff bod Nic makes for an interest side plot. Thankful this isn't a story of self-discovery and the risks that Kim takes are of great concern to many. One scene sees her going to tremendous lengths to film one cleric denouncing television, only to discover moments later she at a men-only meeting. Fahim is the voice opposition to her growing thrill seeking as he is a newlywed who is frightened of consequences.
While Whiskey Tango Foxtrot might score points for originality, its lack of political agenda combined with its unclear tone makes it less memorable. At times, there are moments of The Hurt Locker type tension which aid the film early on as Kim goes from desk jockey to the front line. Aside from some excellent individual pieces, Ficara and Requa are not able to find the solid ground needed. This picture opens well but is hindered by a severe lack of depth. Also, it suffers from what is an entirely unnecessary rescue mission ending scored to 'Without You' smacks of corny. The depiction of the challenges Kim faces a female journalist in Afghanistan is commendable, shame the rest of the film cannot follow suit.
Tina Fey shows a new side of her acting skills here and along with Margot Robbie's excellent turn the pair make for a lively central duo. The early scenes of Tanya showing her new colleague the ropes feel genuine and how funny vibe to them. Fey, in particular, demonstrates that a future in serious cinema might not be a foregone conclusion. Martin Freeman makes for a unique suitor for Kim's affections but makes the most of his characters arrogance. Billy Bob Thornton steals the supporting honors with a wonderful turn as the terminally bored General. He is a man more concerned with a trooper firing an $80,000 missile than successfully completing the target. Each time his appears Thornton is breath of fresh air.
While it might miss the high aim it had for itself, Whiskey Tango Foxtrot is still a funny and engaging look at war. It may not connect on an emotional level but the ideas along with the performances are still worth a look.
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