Rules of Engagement apparently engages some honorable acting by its two stars, Samuel L. Jackson and Tommy Lee Jones, but comes up short in the "taut courtroom drama" department.
The movie is a Cold War story of a decorated Marine officer (Jackson) accused of ordering a civilian massacre. Finding himself betrayed by his government, he has to hire a thoroughly reluctant attorney (Jones) to defend him in court-martial proceedings.
According to some reviewers, the film raises several interesting questions about American foreign policy and the moral dilemmas of soldiers in combat but "doesn't explore the issues with complexity."
Then again, fans of the two macho actors are said to be in for a real treat with lots of action, if not the snappiest dialog, in courtroom flashbacks to what actually occurred. The action scenes, inspired by Saving Private Ryan, according to one critic, are exciting and well staged, often employing hand-held camera work. So, action, yes; courtroom, no.
The film was multi-directed by William Friedkin, William A. Fraker, Nicola Pecorini and Dariusz Wolski. It's rated R for scenes of war violence and language.
It started Thursday at Market Square East Theater.
