Everyday heroism is the focus of gripping homage to boston “Let me drive. I’ve never driven a Benz, I want to drive a Benz.” The arguments between an older and younger brother could be the subject for any film. But in Paul Berg’s surprisingly effective Patriots Day, the brothers are Tamerlan (Themo Melikidze) and Jahar Tsarnaev (Alex Wolff), the two perpetrators behind the Boston marathon bombings in April 2013.

Peter Berg’s attention to human dynamics and ordinary moments heightens the emotional impact of the bombings, as well as the suspense around the investigation. The meticulously researched film features shaky cams, security footage and POV work, adding realism and intimacy as Berg introduces his large cast of characters on the morning of April 15.

One of these is Sgt. Tommy Saunders (Mark Wahlberg), an officer posted at the marathon’s finishing line. As the air fills with smoke, screams and blood, the scale of the challenge facing the investigators becomes clear.

Stars like JK Simmons, Kevin Bacon and John Goodman all appear as policemen and FBI investigators, but these A-listers don’t pull focus from other characters, like Dun Meng (Jimmy O. Yang), who was kidnapped by the bombers before escaping and calling 911, or even Jahar’s friends who misguidedly try to protect him.

Ending with real footage of victims and investigators proves emotive and highlights the film’s attempt to honour them. However, Patriots Day does fall into the very American mindset of celebrating the killing and exploitation of their enemies, such as interrogators denying Tamarlan’s wife (Melissa Benoist) a lawyer, and Tamarlan’s death being followed by city-wide cheering. They’re tacky and disturbing moments in a film that otherwise emphasises the heroism of a city full of individuals, united by tragedy and resilience.

3.5/5