Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk (2016) is a drama film directed by Ang Lee, based on the novel of the same name by Ben Fountain. The film explores the experiences of a young soldier returning home from the Iraq War.
The story follows Billy Lynn (played by Joe Alwyn), a 19-year-old soldier who becomes a hero after a heroic action in Iraq is captured on camera. The film is set during a halftime show at a Dallas Cowboys football game, where Billy and his fellow soldiers are being honored as part of a public relations tour. The narrative alternates between the present-day halftime show and flashbacks of the intense and traumatic experiences of Billy’s tour in Iraq.
The film delves into themes of heroism, trauma, and the complexities of public perception versus personal experience. It examines the contrast between the glorified image of soldiers presented to the public and the harsh realities they face.
Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk is noted for its innovative use of high frame rate technology, which enhances the film’s visual impact and immersion. The film features a strong cast, including Kristen Stewart, Vin Diesel, and Chris Tucker, and is praised for its poignant storytelling and exploration of the psychological effects of war.
