“Patriots Day” is a must-see

Paige Valaika, Staff Writer

Director Peter Berg’s “Patriots Day” is a must-see. The film tells the story of the events leading up to and following the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing. While you most likely have an idea of what happened in real life, you’ll still be on the edge of your seat the entire way through the film. Berg’s creative use of reinactment combined with real footage of the 2013 Boston Marathon will have your heart pounding and palms sweating.

If you had asked me before seeing the movie if I knew about the 2013 Boston Marathon I’d say yes; I’m here to tell you that if you think you know the whole story you most likely don’t. The movie not only highlights the details of the bigger picture of what happened, but also the individual stories of the unsung heroes. One of these heroes includes Sergeant Tommy Saunders, who is played by academy award nominee Mark Wahlberg.

If you’re a Mark Wahlberg fan, you have even more reason to go. His character is a scrappy, charismatic Boston cop who emerges as a key leader throughout the event. Wahlberg himself is a Boston native and he fits the role perfectly.

The film has already gone to the National Board of Review for Top 10 films of 2016. Jeff Sneider from Mashable is calling it, “The movie America needs right now.” The Hollywood Reporter’s Scott Feinberg described it as,“A powerful, moving, and much needed reminder that Americans of all different stripes can and must come together.”

No matter what your views may be on the current status of our country, “Patriots Day” will without a doubt tug at your heart strings and inspire you with its powerful messages of patriotism, bravery, resiliency of the human spirit and love.

“Patriot’s Day” is still showing in all the nearby theaters including AMC Plaza and Leawood locations, as well as the Cinetopia in Overland Park. Want a sneak peek? Check out the official trailer at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KJXqh2rDeh .