We all have challenges to survive. Those challenges can push us to a breaking point or make us stronger. And if we come through to the other side, we’ll be changed. That’s certainly something the protagonists of Heart of the Beast can appreciate.

There is a bond that is forged on the battlefield. When we’ve gone through the worst of it together, it bonds you together. That’s even more true when it’s you and your four-legged companion. In this film we follow James (Brad Pitt), a retired Army special forces operator and Odin, his battle dog.

After years of working on the front lines and accumulating scars both internal and external, James and Odin are retired. They take a small plane to the wilds of Alaska to get away from it all. It’s a time of fishing, hunting, and drinking in a time of peace. Both of them carry the weight and scars of a lifetime of combat, and those who never made it home.

As they’re out in Alaska, they come across a fellow wanderer (J.K. Simmons). They share stories and share some time around the fire. They see each other and appreciate each other’s journey. The following day, James and Odin head out as a storm approaches. But, while in the air, James suffers a heart-attack.

The plane crashes into the wilderness, leaving them alive but stranded and more than 50 miles from a road and population. Wounded but determined, James and Odin begin the trek back to civilization. But it presents more challenges than expected as nature won’t go quietly.

This film comes from director David Ayer. He’s given audiences a lot of intense action films in his career, and this film falls into that category. And yet, it feels like something completely different. It’s mostly a two-hander between James and Odin, and their efforts to stay alive and get back safely.

It’s a harrowing journey full of challenges. As such, it feels like one of the best performances from Pitt in years. He’s gritty and intense, but there is also a soft warmness that comes out with Odin that’s inspiring. I was taken with their story and their friendship, which is what adds the stakes to the film.

There is a wonderful look here. The film captures the natural beauty of Alaska. It captures the rough edges, too. We go through a series of adventures and all of it sucks you in and fills the screen. You’re invested in the journey and pulled to the edge of your seat.

And yet, it’s the heart of the film that moved me most. That particularly comes out in the Third Act. You know what’s coming—or at least suspect. And yet, when it does finally come it’s an incredibly emotional and cathartic moment. It left me in tears and captivated, which is a rare feat for a film.

Heart of the Beast is one of the most compelling films I’ve seen this year. It’s simple beauty and compelling story makes it well worth seeing on the biggest screen possible.

Heart of the Beast is now playing nationwide.

Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.