In capturing the inanity and immediacy of drone warfare, with its focus tipped toward political procrastination rather than military manoeuvres, Eye In The Sky is an effective entry into a timely debate.

EITS’s major malfunction is symbolic of the warfare it is scrutinising – remoteness. Characters interact almost exclusively by telephone, disconnecting the opportunity to see the lead cast actually spar.

However, in each of their four short films the actors deliver compelling and convincing performances. Mirren is driven, Rickman exasperated, Paul nervous, and Abdi resourceful – they’ve been these characters in other lives, but they are the ones they do best.

As showcases of the cast’s talent, EITS hits its mark. Plot-wise, this realistic and relevant portrayal of how Whitehall and Washington wage war is more interesting than engaging.

RATING: 3/5

INFORMATION

CAST: Helen Mirren, Alan Rickman, Aaron Paul, Barkhad Abdi

DIRECTOR: Gavin Hood

WRITER: Guy Hibbert

SYNOPSIS: When a young girl enters a targeted kill zone, an international dispute over the implications of modern warfare begins. The commander is in England (Mirren). The drone pilot is in America (Paul). The terrorist is in Kenya. And the authority to strike is up in the air.