True Story Action Thriller On Netflix Shows How Cops Caught Real-Life Terrorists
If you were tuned in to the news cycle during the Spring of 2013, you likely recall the story of terrorists setting off explosive devices during that year’s Boston Marathon and the ensuing manhunt that followed. While this event was traumatic for many people, the story also serves as a tale of resilience and community, with many Bostonians still touting “Boston Strong” shirts, hats, and bumper stickers to commemorate the solemn occasion. If you’re interested in learning more about the entire affair, the film Patriots Day showcases the dramatic true story, and is currently streaming on Netflix.
The Boston Marathon Bombing
The narrative of Patriots Day centers on Mark Wahlberg’s Boston police sergeant Tommy Saunders as he patrols the Boston Marathon on April 15, 2013. As Saunders scans the crowd for signs of any suspicious activity, he engages with members of the public who celebrate the famous event each year. In an unfortunate twist of fate, a pair of hastily-made explosives detonate near the finish line, killing 3 people and injuring hundreds.
Boston Strong
After first responders quickly rush to assist those with injuries and scan for other explosives, an investigation kicks off, eventually revealing the identities of the sibling terrorist duo responsible. With the help of the FBI, local citizens, and the entire rallying support of New England, Saunders and his associates manage to apprehend the brothers after an unprecedented 4 day long manhunt, which combed the entire surrounding area of Boston. As Patriots Day builds to a thrilling climax, one of the terrorists is killed in a shootout with the police, and the other is captured and tried for his crimes.
2013 Hide And Seek Champions
I don’t mean to spoil the plot of Patriots Day, though you’re likely already familiar with how things turned out in some capacity. Those who were aware of the broad strokes of the Boston Marathon bombing should still make it a point to check Patriots Day out, since the movie highlights a few specific details that make the entire case incredibly fascinating. Today, the surviving Marathon bomber, Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, is awaiting an impending death sentence for his crimes, and being held in a federal supermax prison in Colorado.
The A-List Cast
Patriots Day was written and directed by frequent Mark Wahlberg collaborator Peter Berg, with additional writing credits for Matt Cook and Joshua Zetumer. As stated, Wahlberg leads the cast of this quintessentially Boston film, alongside such lauded performers as Kevin Bacon, Michelle Monaghan, John Goodman, J.K. Simmons, Jake Picking, Jimmy O. Yang, Rachel Brosnahan, and The Sopranos‘ Vincent Curatola.
Patriots Day Is On Netflix
REVIEW SCORE
As a film fan, I think Patriots Day checks all the boxes for a captivating crime thriller that showcases the true story behind a fascinating and contemporary event in modern history. But as a born-and-bred Bostonian who was present during the actual manhunt, this film transports me back to one of the most concerning and bizarre times in my city’s history, and completely delivers on its stated goal of highlighting Boston’s shared resilience. The film may not necessarily be for everybody, but I’d certainly recommend it with no major caveats.
If you’re interested in checking out Patriots Day today, the film is currently streaming on Netflix.
