Quentin Tarantino, the acclaimed director known for his influential films, has named Black Hawk Down as the best film of the 21st century. Speaking on the podcast hosted by Bret Easton Ellis, Tarantino shared that the film, directed by Ridley Scott, has had a lasting impact on him, evolving from an initial viewing to what he now considers “a masterwork.”
Released in 2001, Black Hawk Down is based on the true events of a failed U.S. Army mission in war-torn Mogadishu in 1993. The film depicts the chaos that ensued when two helicopters were downed during a mission to capture a warlord, leaving Army Rangers and special forces stranded and desperate to survive. Tarantino praised the film’s direction, stating, “The feat of direction is beyond extraordinary.”
While the film is celebrated for its technical prowess and gripping action sequences, it has faced criticism for its portrayal of the Somali people, often depicted as faceless enemies. Tarantino acknowledged this aspect, noting that the film prioritizes the immediate experiences of the soldiers over the political backdrop. He remarked, “This is the only movie that actually goes completely for an Apocalypse Now sense of purpose and visual effect and feeling.”
Technical Mastery and Cinematic Experience
Photographed by Slawomir Idziak, the film employs a deliberately muted color palette, creating a smoky and dusty atmosphere that enhances the realism of the battle. The detailed cinematography captures the sweat, grime, and tension among soldiers as they navigate the urban landscape. This visual style, according to Tarantino, is integral to the film’s immersive experience, which he described as gripping throughout its runtime.
The film’s editing, handled by Pietro Scalia, who won an Academy Award for his work, adeptly manages the large ensemble cast and overlapping narratives. With notable performances from actors such as Ewan McGregor, Jason Isaacs, and Tom Hardy in his debut role, the film successfully conveys the harrowing realities faced by soldiers in combat.
In addition to its visual and narrative strengths, Black Hawk Down also received accolades for its sound design, winning an Oscar for Best Sound. The film’s auditory experience, characterized by the weighty sounds of helicopter blades and gunfire, creates an enveloping atmosphere that draws viewers into the heart of the conflict.
Legacy and Availability
Black Hawk Down remains widely accessible for streaming and rental. Tarantino emphasized the importance of viewing the film in high-quality formats, advocating for Blu-ray 4K and Dolby Atmos systems to fully appreciate its artistic achievements. Whether or not audiences agree with Tarantino’s assertion of its supremacy, the film undoubtedly stands as a significant work in the war film genre.
As the debate over the best films of the 21st century continues, Tarantino’s endorsement of Black Hawk Down adds a compelling perspective to the discussion, highlighting the film’s enduring impact on both viewers and filmmakers alike.