During the war in Afghanistan, a local interpreter risks his own life to carry an injured sergeant across miles of grueling terrain.
Guy Ritchie’s The Covenant (2023) is a war action-thriller film that explores the bond between two men—one an American soldier and the other an Afghan translator—set against the backdrop of the U.S. military’s withdrawal from Afghanistan. Directed by Guy Ritchie and starring Jake Gyllenhaal and Dar Salim, the film combines personal and political stakes with intense action sequences. Here’s an overview of the plot and why it’s worth watching:
Plot Summary:
The story follows Sergeant John Kinley (Jake Gyllenhaal), who is working with Ahmed (Dar Salim), an Afghan translator who saves his life during a mission. When a devastating ambush leaves Kinley severely injured, Ahmed risks his life to ensure Kinley survives and makes it back to safety. However, after the mission, the U.S. military abandons its promise to help the Afghan interpreters, leaving Ahmed and his family in danger. Kinley, back in America, takes matters into his own hands, going through bureaucratic red tape and attempting to rescue Ahmed and his family from the Taliban. The story touches on themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the U.S. military’s failure to support its allies.
Reasons to Watch:
- A Powerful Story of Loyalty: The central relationship between Kinley and Ahmed, which begins as a professional bond but evolves into something much deeper, provides an emotional core to the film. Their journey across the Afghan wilderness and their eventual fight for survival exemplifies loyalty and heroism under dire circumstances
- Guy Ritchie’s Direction: Known for his energetic and stylish filmmaking, Ritchie brings a tense and gripping energy to the film, especially in the first half, where he skillfully navigates the complex, personal struggles of the characters. His style is balanced with a realistic portrayal of the Afghan conflict
- Strong Performances: Jake Gyllenhaal gives a standout performance as the soldier who learns to see his ally as a human being rather than just a tool in war. Dar Salim’s portrayal of Ahmed is nuanced and full of quiet strength, making the pair’s dynamic especially compelling
- Realistic Take on the Afghanistan War: The film stands out for its portrayal of the harsh realities Afghan allies faced following the U.S. withdrawal. It shines a light on the complexities of war, military promises, and the bureaucracy that often fails those who risk their lives
- Action with Substance: While the movie offers thrilling action scenes, particularly in the second half, these moments are deeply tied to the characters’ emotions and struggles, making the action feel earned and impactful
- Timely and Thought-Provoking: Given the recent history of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, The Covenant is a timely film that raises questions about international alliances, the human cost of war, and the responsibilities nations have toward those who serve alongside them
Guy Ritchie’s The Covenant is a compelling mix of heart-pounding action and emotional depth, making it a must-watch for fans of both war thrillers and character-driven narratives.
