Hounds of War (2024) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
“Hounds of War,” directed by Isaac Florentine and starring action star Frank Grillo, is an action-packed revenge thriller set in the world of mercenaries. With its release in August 2024, this film brings high-stakes combat sequences, betrayal, and the unrelenting pursuit of vengeance to the screen. The movie follows Ryder (played by Frank Grillo), the lone survivor of a botched mission, who seeks to avenge his fallen comrades.
While the premise of “Hounds of War” suggests a gripping story with intense combat, the execution leaves much to be desired. With the runtime of just 94 minutes, the film feels rushed and misses key character development opportunities. Nonetheless, it’s the perfect watch for viewers who enjoy straightforward action without heavy exposition.
In this review, we’ll explore the film’s story, cast, production, and where to watch “Hounds of War” online, especially in the U.S. We’ll also highlight its key strengths and weaknesses, and help you determine if this is your next movie night choice.
Plot Overview
The film opens with Ryder being called in for one final mission after retiring from active duty. The group of mercenaries, led by Ryder, is sent to the Middle East to eliminate a radical leader. However, this turns out to be a trap. Ambushed and outnumbered, Ryder watches helplessly as his team is wiped out. Miraculously, Ryder survives, but the brutal deaths of his comrades ignite a burning desire for revenge.
The narrative of Hounds of War moves back and forth between the present and Ryder’s recollection of the mission, piecing together the moments that led to the massacre. However, the lack of proper character introductions for the other mercenaries weakens the emotional impact of their deaths, and audiences may struggle to connect with these brief characters before they’re taken out.
Ryder’s journey of revenge is fast-paced and laced with action sequences, but it doesn’t dive deep into character motivations or emotions. His main driving force is the memory of his fallen comrades, but the movie doesn’t give audiences enough time to get invested in these characters before their demise.
Cast and Performances
Frank Grillo plays Ryder, the stoic protagonist who is out for blood. Known for his tough-guy roles in films like The Purge series and Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Grillo fits well into the role of a hardened mercenary. However, the script doesn’t give him much room for character exploration beyond his thirst for vengeance.
While Grillo delivers a solid performance as Ryder, the supporting cast is underutilized. Many of the mercenaries, including key players in the mission, barely have any screen time or development before they’re killed off. This limits the emotional depth of the film, and viewers are left with little attachment to any of the characters.
One of the few standout performances is by Madeline Zima, who plays a pivotal role as a mysterious figure aiding Ryder in his quest for revenge. Zima adds a layer of intrigue to the story, but unfortunately, the film doesn’t give her enough screen time to make a lasting impact.
Direction and Action Sequences
Isaac Florentine, known for his work in the action genre with films like Ninja (2009) and Acts of Vengeance (2017), stays true to his reputation by filling Hounds of War with intense, fast-paced fight sequences. The combat scenes are brutal and reminiscent of classic hand-to-hand fight films, such as The Raid. Fans of gritty action will appreciate the choreography, but the film’s overuse of fast-forwarded combat scenes and sloppy editing detracts from the excitement.
While the action scenes are frequent and sometimes impressive, the plot lacks cohesion. The movie oscillates between slow moments of planning and bursts of violence, and the transition between these two tones feels jarring at times. The film doesn’t fully capitalize on its premise, and the revenge plot becomes somewhat predictable by the third act.
Cinematography and Locations
One of the film’s surprising strengths is its use of stunning locations. Shot in Malta, the film takes full advantage of the island’s architecture and scenic views. The movie opens with sweeping shots of Malta’s picturesque landscapes, providing a stark contrast to the gritty combat scenes that follow.
However, the focus on showcasing Malta’s beauty sometimes feels like a distraction from the main plot. For instance, the opening credits take an unusually long time, devoting several minutes to establishing the scenic setting rather than setting the tone for the revenge-driven narrative.
Where to Watch Hounds of War Online
As of its release in August 2024, Hounds of War is available for streaming and rental/purchase on several platforms, especially for U.S. viewers. Below are the current options for watching the film online:
Streaming Platforms
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for purchase or rent. Hounds of War can be found in HD and UHD formats.
- Vudu: Offering rental and purchase options, with the ability to watch in HDX for the best viewing experience.
- Google Play Movies: The film is available for rental or purchase, giving users flexibility on viewing formats.
- Apple TV: U.S. viewers can rent or purchase the movie in HD and 4K formats.
Rental and Purchase Options
- YouTube Movies: Hounds of War is available for rental or purchase through YouTube Movies, offering flexibility for users on various devices.
- Microsoft Store: Users can rent or purchase the film in HD formats for viewing on Xbox or PC.
Please note that while Hounds of War may not yet be included in any major subscription-based streaming services, it’s possible the film could be added to platforms like Netflix or Hulu later on, so keep an eye out for updates.
Final Thoughts
Hounds of War is a serviceable action film that delivers fast-paced combat and vengeance-driven plotlines. Frank Grillo’s performance holds the film together, but the lack of character development and rushed pacing prevent the movie from fully realizing its potential. While it’s an entertaining watch for fans of low-budget action flicks, it may not leave a lasting impression.
For viewers seeking a quick action fix with brutal fight scenes and a straightforward revenge narrative, Hounds of War will suffice. However, those looking for more depth and character engagement may find themselves underwhelmed by the thin plot and lackluster supporting cast.
