“Cherry,” the 2021 drama starring Tom Holland, may have failed to resonate with critics, but amidst the sea of negative reviews lies a glimmer of recognition from an unexpected source. Despite its lukewarm reception, the film received high points for accuracy from a military expert, shedding light on its portrayal of real-life war experiences.
Directed by Joe and Anthony Russo, known for their blockbuster success in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), “Cherry” follows the story of an Iraq War veteran descending into a life of crime to support his wife’s drug addiction. While the film struggled to find favor among critics, its depiction of military scenarios earned praise from Jay Dorleus, a military expert and war veteran.
In a video breakdown for Insider, Dorleus commended “Cherry” for its attention to detail in portraying the realities of combat, including enemy tactics, military hardware, and the dangers of landmines. His analysis highlighted the authenticity of scenes depicting mortar attacks, turret systems, and the devastating impact of landmines, drawing from his own experiences in Iraq.
Despite the film’s 37% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, Dorleus’s endorsement provides a different perspective, emphasizing the film’s accuracy in capturing the essence of wartime conditions. His remarks offer insight into the meticulous research and commitment to realism undertaken by the filmmakers, elevating the film’s credibility in portraying the challenges faced by soldiers on the battlefield.
However, “Cherry” faced criticism not only for its critical reception but also for its reliance on clichés in storytelling and Holland’s portrayal of the titular character. While Holland’s performance as Spider-Man in the MCU garnered acclaim, his transition to a darker, more complex role fell short for some viewers, underscoring the challenges of breaking away from established characters and genres.
Despite its flaws, “Cherry” remains available for viewing on AppleTV+, offering audiences a chance to explore its depiction of war and its consequences. While the film may not have achieved the dramatic breakthrough anticipated by some, its recognition for accuracy in military portrayal serves as a testament to the filmmakers’ commitment to authenticity amidst the tumult of critical reception.
In the end, “Cherry” may not have achieved the acclaim of its MCU counterparts, but its acknowledgment from a military expert underscores its value in portraying the harsh realities of war—an aspect that transcends the boundaries of critical acclaim and offers a unique perspective on the film’s legacy. As Tom Holland navigates his career beyond the confines of Spider-Man, the lessons learned from “Cherry” may serve as a stepping stone towards new horizons in dramatic storytelling.
FAQ
What is “Cherry” about, and who directed it?
“Cherry” follows the story of an Iraq War veteran descending into a life of crime to support his wife’s drug addiction. It was directed by Joe and Anthony Russo, known for their success in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).
What was the critical reception of “Cherry”?
“Cherry” received mixed to negative reviews from critics, garnering a 37% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics cited issues with the film’s storytelling, characterization, and Tom Holland’s performance in a dramatic role.
Why did “Cherry” receive praise from a military expert?
Despite its critical reception, “Cherry” was praised by military expert Jay Dorleus for its accuracy in portraying wartime experiences. Dorleus commended the film for its attention to detail in depicting enemy tactics, military hardware, and the dangers of landmines.
What aspects of military accuracy did Jay Dorleus highlight in his analysis?
Dorleus praised “Cherry” for its realistic portrayal of mortar attacks, turret systems, and the devastating impact of landmines. He drew from his own experiences as a war veteran to commend the film’s authenticity in capturing the essence of combat.
How did “Cherry” differ from Tom Holland’s previous roles, and what were the criticisms surrounding his performance?
“Cherry” marked a departure for Tom Holland from his role as Spider-Man in the MCU, delving into darker and more complex subject matter. While Holland’s performance received acclaim in the MCU, some critics found his portrayal of the titular character in “Cherry” lacking in believability and depth.