Valiant One

Valiant One (2025): A Predictable Military Thriller with Modest Strengths

Valiant One is a 2025 American action-thriller directed by Steve Barnett and co-written with Eric Tipton. The film stars Chase Stokes, Lana Condor, Desmin Borges, Callan Mulvey, Daniel Jun, and Jonathan Whitesell. Released by Briarcliff Entertainment, it runs approximately 86 minutes and explores leadership, survival, and loyalty in hostile territory.

The premise centers on a U.S. Army flight crew sent to repair radar equipment near the Korean Demilitarized Zone. When sudden storm-strength winds cause their helicopter to crash deep inside North Korea, the team finds itself isolated and stranded. With communications down and rescue deemed unavailable, Sergeant Edward Brockman (played by Chase Stokes) is thrust into the role of reluctant leader over a group of mostly non-combat specialists. Their mission becomes a desperate attempt to escort a civilian tech contractor back to safety while evading enemy forces.

Chase Stokes portrays Brockman as inexperienced yet determined. Critics have described his performance as wooden and unconvincing, noting that he often seems more focused on appearance than authenticity in a military context. Lana Condor plays Specialist Selby and delivers a more assured performance, though her character remains somewhat clichéd — a tough-as-nails soldier with a hint of hidden vulnerability. Supporting cast members, including Desmin Borges, Daniel Jun, and Jonathan Whitesell, add some energy and emotional contrast, but their character arcs are minimal and largely predictable.

Directed with restraint and efficiency, Valiant One follows many familiar beats of the military survival genre — including dangerous terrain, surprise enemy engagements, and moments of moral reflection. While the action sequences are competently handled, they lack originality and intensity. Critics have pointed out logical gaps in the plot, such as questionable tactical decisions, improbable escapes, and emotionally forced scenes that undercut the tension.

Still, the film does have modest strengths. Its tight 86-minute runtime helps maintain a brisk pace, and there are occasional moments of genuine tension and group camaraderie. Lana Condor stands out for anchoring the film’s emotional core during the quieter, more introspective scenes. The movie’s visual tone captures the harshness of its setting, and while it doesn’t offer stunning cinematography, the production value is serviceable for a lower-budget thriller.

Audience reactions have been more forgiving than critical reviews. While many critics view the film as derivative and underdeveloped, casual viewers seem to appreciate its straightforward approach to survival storytelling. The film has found a small but supportive audience among fans of military dramas and action-thrillers.

Financially, Valiant One had a modest opening at the box office, earning just over $1 million domestically — a reflection of its limited release and relatively unknown cast outside of a few recognizable names.

In the end, Valiant One is best described as a serviceable B-movie. It doesn’t offer much in terms of originality or emotional depth, but for viewers in search of a fast-paced survival tale with a few engaging moments, it might offer just enough to satisfy.