50
Lovers of war cinema might forgive the film’s flaws and be thrilled by Hussian’s visuals, but its characters are too paper-thin to compel our emotional engagement beyond casual interest.
What are people saying?
What are critics saying?
12
Slant Magazine by Clayton Dillard
Paul Gross situates the film's events somewhere between violent, militaristic fantasy and gentler, anti-war lament.
50
The New York Times by Daniel M. Gold
Refreshingly free of jingoism, that detachment unfortunately winds up working against the movie, which doesn’t engage emotionally.
50
This is the kind of movie where a major development in a character’s personal life instantly telegraphs his ultimate fate in the trenches.
70
The Hollywood Reporter by Justin Lowe
Geopolitical speculation aside, Gross makes a persuasive case for the bravery and sacrifice of Canadian troops serving during the Afghanistan conflict.
75
The Globe and Mail (Toronto) by Kate Taylor
Its war scenes are plenty thrilling, but the film’s real achievement is its quiet authenticity.
50
Los Angeles Times by Michael Rechtshaffen
While the attempt at a certain, documentary-style naturalism is honorable, it's at the expense of focused plotting and sufficient character development.
30
This anti-war movie is more passionate about CB radio communication than the horrors of bloodshed.
50
Screen International by Tim Grierson
Hyena Road may be a bit underwhelming in its action set pieces and storytelling urgency, but its heart is certainly in the right place.