Kandahar

An undercover CIA operative embedded in a hostile Afghan landscape sees his cover blown and his mission compromised. With Afghan translator Mohammed by his side, he fights to reach an extraction point in Kandahar, weaving through rugged terrain and streets while evading both Taliban forces and rival spies. Time runs out as checkpoints tighten and the net closes. The mission becomes a race against weather, terrain, and enemies who can strike from shadow or air. In their bid for safety, the pair must rely on stealth, skill, and trust to survive the miles between danger and sanctuary. The film also shows the toll of constant risk on the pair, from unreliable comms to dwindling supplies, forcing quick judgments under pressure.

Directed by Ric Roman Waugh, Kandahar features an original screenplay by Mitchell LaFortune. Butler plays Tom Harris alongside Navid Negahban as Mo Doud, delivering lean action in a tense rescue mission.

Box office numbers for Kandahar reflect a modest release strategy and genre focused audience. While not a blockbuster, it found steady interest among fans of contemporary war thrillers and military procedural pace. The audience appeal comes from its brisk pace, clear mission objective, and a focus on practical tactics rather than flashy set pieces.

There are no major award nominations tied to Kandahar, but critics noted solid performances from Gerard Butler and Navid Negahban and praised the tight pacing. The film earns its place as a compact and effective entry in the military thriller subset. While not racking up prizes, it remains a solid example of the genre.

Reception describes a lean survival tale that centers on loyalty and the ethics of covert operations. The Afghanistan setting adds gravity while the chase scenes stay grounded and efficient, avoiding flashiness. Butler and Negahban provide credibility that keeps the tension high. The dialogue stays precise and direct, giving weight to every decision under pressure.