Set during the Gulf War, this film follows the life of a young Marine named Anthony Swofford, who enlists in the United States Marine Corps in search of a sense of purpose and adventure. The story is narrated in the first person, allowing the audience to delve into Swofford's mind as he faces the harsh reality of military life, as well as the emotional tension of being in imminent combat.
As Swofford trains with his squad, deep bonds form among comrades, but tensions and fears of the unknown also emerge. The wait becomes agonizing, and time seems to stand still as the Marines are trapped in a limbo of anticipation, where the war does not come, and the desire for action grows. The film explores themes of masculinity, anxiety, and the internal struggle with social expectations.
As the Marines prepare for battle, Swofford's rash decisions and anguish become more intense. The film reveals how the experience of combat affects the psychology of soldiers, turning brave men into shadows of what they once were. Through an emotionally gripping and visually captivating journey, the effects of military service on individuals and the harsh reality of what it means to be a soldier in wartime are deeply examined.