Alan Ritchson’s War Machine: Netflix Sci-Fi Action Review

Alan Ritchson, best known for his role as Jack Reacher, is back in action with “War Machine,” a new sci-fi thriller now streaming on Netflix. Directed by Patrick Hughes (“The Expendables 3,” “The Hitman’s Bodyguard”), the film delivers a surprisingly solid action experience, even if the title feels a little…familiar. It turns out this isn’t the first Netflix original to bear that name; a 2017 Brad Pitt vehicle with the same title once captivated the Pentagon, according to Slashfilm’s reporting from 2017.

For those unfamiliar with Ritchson’s work beyond “Reacher,” this film offers a good entry point. As /Film notes in their ranking of his best roles, he’s built a solid filmography outside of his breakout role, and “War Machine” showcases his ability to carry an action film. I approached the film with limited knowledge of his previous work – having only seen three projects from /Film’s list of his seven best non-“Reacher” projects – and was pleasantly surprised.

A Familiar Premise, Solidly Executed

“War Machine” centers on a haunted Army Ranger candidate who leads a team through a rigorous training exercise that quickly spirals into a real-life fight for survival. The twist? They stumble upon a crashed alien machine – a large, bipedal threat – and develop into the first line of defense against an extraterrestrial invasion. The trailer, available on YouTube, gives a good sense of the film’s tone and action sequences.

The film draws clear inspiration from John McTiernan’s 1987 classic, “Predator,” pitting a team of highly trained soldiers against a technologically superior alien foe in a wilderness setting. While “War Machine” doesn’t reach the heights of “Predator” in terms of charisma, humor, or sheer spectacle, it’s a competent and engaging action film in its own right. It benefits from a clear narrative structure, a defined character arc for Ritchson’s protagonist, and practical on-location photography that lends a sense of realism often missing from Netflix’s action offerings.

This is a welcome change of pace from some of Netflix’s more recent action releases. As Slashfilm points out, films like “The Old Guard 2” and “Heart of Stone” have fallen short of expectations. “War Machine,” while not groundbreaking, feels like a “finished movie” – a simple but crucial distinction.

Thematic Resonance in a World Increasingly Shaped by AI

Beyond the action sequences, “War Machine” touches on themes relevant to our current moment. The alien threat can be interpreted as a stand-in for the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence and the anxieties surrounding its potential impact on humanity. The film’s narrative, without spoiling the ending, leans into the idea of actively fighting back against technological dominance rather than passively accepting an inevitable takeover.

This thematic element feels particularly pointed given recent events. Just days before the film’s release, the Wall Street Journal reported that the U.S. Government utilized AI in an attack on Iran, adding a layer of irony to the film’s anti-AI stance. It transforms the narrative from a straightforward action thriller into a somewhat unsettling reflection of real-world developments.

Currently holding a 3.2 rating on Letterboxd, “War Machine” isn’t setting the world on fire, but it’s a solid, enjoyable action film that’s likely to appeal to fans of the genre – and those looking for a dependable weekend watch. It’s the kind of movie that feels destined for repeat viewings on TNT on a lazy Sunday afternoon.

What’s Next for Alan Ritchson?

While “War Machine” is currently the focus, Ritchson’s career continues to build momentum. His continued success with “Reacher” has undoubtedly opened doors to new opportunities, and he’s likely to remain a prominent figure in the action genre. No immediate follow-up projects have been announced as of March 6, 2026, but his growing profile suggests a steady stream of roles will be forthcoming. His involvement in “War Machine” demonstrates a willingness to explore different facets of the action genre, and audiences will be watching to observe what he tackles next.