“Good Kill” is a movie that tackles one of the most controversial issues in recent years. This is an honest look at the reality of drone warfare that does not take a stance but rather sticks to just presenting the facts.

In “Good Kill”, Major Thomas Egan (Ethan Hawke “Training Day”) used to fly an F-16 to fight wars but down he sits in comfortable surroundings in Las Vegas as a drone pilot. He carries out strikes in war zones thousands of miles away such as Afghanistan, Pakistan and Yemen and then returns home to his family. He increasingly feels the pressures of the job and it takes a considerable toll on him and his family.

Ethan Hawke is a very talented actor and here is under the guidance of director Andrew Nicol (“S1m0ne”), who brings out the best in Hawke. The two first worked together on “Gattaca”, which was one of the best sci-fi movies ever made. Hawke gives a very believable performance as he struggles to balance his duties with his morals. Bruce Greenwood (“Swept Away”) gives a strong performance as Lieutenant Colonel Jack Johns. January Jones (“X-Men: First Class”) is really good as Thomas’ wife, Molly. The other characters are good as well.

“Good Kill” works very well because it does not take sides. This movie could have easily condemned the use of drones or been an advert for weapons companies but it is smart enough to take an objective look at the subject matter. The film ends somewhat abruptly yet I’m unsure what a better ending would have looked like. Those looking for a thought-provoking piece about the issues surrounding the technological advances in warfare need to see “Good Kill”. Some will undoubtedly find it slow so do not go in expecting a lot of action.