COUNTER COLUMN

Cinemavixion Review

"Counter Column" offers a compelling narrative of contrasting lives converging within the structured environment of Army basic training. Gilbert Sorola's direction masterfully navigates the friction between an inner-city youth entangled in a life of crime and a devout man from rural Indiana. The performances by Chris Gonzales and Nathan-Andrew Hight, as the central figures Anthony Mendoza and Chris Wright respectively, are pivotal, showcasing a palpable tension and eventual transformation. While the film delves into themes of faith, persecution, and personal redemption, it avoids easy answers, presenting a nuanced portrayal of how external discipline can challenge deeply ingrained internal resistance. The supporting cast, including Michael Kaiser, effectively rounds out this exploration of character development against the backdrop of military rigor. It's a testament to the power of unexpected connections to foster profound change.