Good Kill (2014)

"Good Kill" (2014) delves into the psychologically taxing world of modern drone warfare. Ethan Hawke delivers a compelling performance as Tom Egan, an Air Force pilot grappling with the moral complexities of remotely engaging in combat. Confined to a Nevada bunker after years of traditional flight duty, Egan now targets the Taliban with the push of a button, experiencing combat as a detached, video-game-like simulation. However, the distance doesn't shield him from the heavy weight of his decisions, as he struggles with the ever-present threat of collateral damage. The film explores the erosion of Egan’s mental state and his strained relationship with his wife, portrayed by January Jones, as he yearns for a more tangible connection to the conflict and questions the very nature of his actions. "Good Kill" earns its place among Andrew Niccol's best works due to its sharp, incisive critique of technological advancement and its impact on the human psyche – a recurring theme in his filmography. Like "Gattaca" and "S1m0ne," Niccol masterfully uses a seemingly futuristic premise to explore profound ethical dilemmas and the dehumanizing potential of technology. The film doesn't offer easy answers but instead forces viewers to confront the uncomfortable realities of drone warfare and the emotional toll it takes on those involved, both directly and indirectly. Niccol's signature visual style and thought-provoking narrative make "Good Kill" a chillingly relevant and powerful addition to his body of work.