This is basically The Hangover mashed with Scarface. It’s aesthetically and thematically similar to The Hangover – it’s got trips to Vegas, people trapped in trunks, and Bradley Cooper. Which makes sense, considering it’s directed by Todd Phillips. And much like The Hangover, War Dogs is a very fun watch. It’s got equal measures of humor and action. The fact that it’s based on a true story is not necessarily surprising, considering the Wild West atmosphere that popped up in the wake of the Iraq War. But it’s a bit crazy to think that these two college-aged kids managed to weasel their way into the international arms trade. Fun fact: The guitar player in the old folks home is the actual David Packouz (the main character).

This is a movie that understood what it was, and played up to its strengths (mainly, Jonah Hill’s ability to pull off the lovable asshole, with Miles Teller countering with the good-guy-in-over-his-head). It’s not some great film or anything, but it doesn’t really need to be or try to be. It’s a movie I’d probably watch again if it popped up on the TV guide.

3.5 out of 5 stars