"Hyena Road" is a Canadian war drama film that delves into the complexities of modern warfare, particularly in the context of the war in Afghanistan. Released in 2015, the movie was both directed and written by Paul Gross.
Synopsis:
The film revolves around three men: a sniper, an intelligence officer, and a legendary Mujahideen warrior. As Canadian troops navigate the dangerous terrain of Afghanistan and the challenges of insurgent attacks, the intelligence officer finds himself in the middle of a web of intrigue and local politics.
The sniper, on the other hand, forms an unexpected bond with the Mujahideen warrior. Their stories intertwine, revealing the intricacies and moral ambiguities of war.
Cast and Characters:
- Pete Mitchell (Paul Gross): An intelligence officer who finds himself navigating the intricate world of local politics and warfare.
- Ryan Sanders (Rossif Sutherland): A sniper who forms an unlikely bond with a legendary Mujahideen warrior.
- The Ghost (Neamat Arghandabi): A Mujahideen warrior who becomes central to the unfolding drama.
Where to Stream
United States (US):
There are currently no streaming offers in the US.
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Australia (AU):
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- Stream: Netflix, Netflix basic with Ads
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United Kingdom (GB):
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Germany (DE):
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Brazil (BR):
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France (FR):
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Canada (CA):
There are currently no streaming offers in the CA.
- Stream: Netflix, Club Illico, Netflix basic with Ads
- Buy: Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Cineplex, Microsoft Store, YouTube, Amazon Video.
Production Details:
Directed and written by Paul Gross, "Hyena Road" aimed to provide a nuanced perspective on the Canadian involvement in Afghanistan. The film was shot on location, which added authenticity to its portrayal of the war-torn region.
The challenges of filming in such conditions, including replicating the Afghan landscape and ensuring the safety of the cast and crew, were significant.
Reception and Awards:
Critical reception: The film received mixed reviews from critics. While some praised its realistic portrayal of warfare and the performances of the lead actors, others felt it didn't delve deep enough into the complexities of the Afghan conflict.
Audience reception: "Hyena Road" was generally well-received by audiences, especially those with an interest in military dramas and the intricacies of modern warfare.
The film garnered several nominations at the Canadian Screen Awards, reflecting its impact within the Canadian film industry.
Trivia and Fun Facts:
- Paul Gross, besides directing and writing, also played a leading role in the film, showcasing his multifaceted talents.
- The film's title, "Hyena Road," is derived from an actual road in Afghanistan, which plays a significant role in the movie.
- Gross spent considerable time researching and interviewing military personnel to ensure the film's authenticity and accuracy in portraying the Canadian military's experiences in Afghanistan.
"Hyena Road" offers a glimpse into the challenges, moral dilemmas, and human stories that arise in the midst of warfare, making it a significant contribution to war cinema.