Valiant One (2025) Christian Review: Faith, Conflict & Courage in Action

A U.S. Army helicopter crashes deep in North Korean territory after a routine mission near the DMZ goes awry. Sergeant Edward Brockman (Chase Stokes) becomes the reluctant leader of survivors, who must escape hostile terrain while protecting a civilian tech specialist. As they navigate enemy lines without support, the film explores survival, team loyalty, and the costs of war.

Valiant One offers a rugged canvas on which to reflect about faith under fire. The characters’ perseverance in dire circumstances echoes Christian themes of endurance, hope, and dependence on unseen strength. Brockman’s burden of leadership carries implicit parallels to shepherding others amid peril. The film doesn’t overtly explore redemption or grace, but its portrayal of people choosing to protect one another—even when fear and fatigue loom—suggests that faith may be latent in their courage. It’s more of a test of character than a sermon.

The film’s pacing is brisk, which helps mask some of the weaker dialogue and plot conveniences. Director Barnett leans on action and tension rather than deep character introspection, which keeps momentum up but leaves emotional moments undercooked. The narrative occasionally falls into genre clichés, and some transitions feel forced, but the fundamental survival storyline is serviceable.

Stokes as Brockman carries the film with enough grit to make you believe his burden, though he rarely sheds much complexity beyond stoicism. Condor’s Selby brings contrast and humanity, though her arc is limited by circumstances. The supporting cast is competent, but the short runtime doesn’t allow many of them full development. Most moral dilemmas are suggested rather than truly wrestled with.

This is not suitable for children—rated R, with violence, conflict, and strong language. For older teens and adults who enjoy action thrillers and are okay with light spiritual undertones, it’s a popcorn-style watch. Don’t expect it to nourish faith, but it won’t be insulting to it either.