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The Trident Force
Movie

The Trident Force

1988 • Action

Woke Score
2
out of 10

Plot

The Palestinian terrorist Abu Hassad can only be stopped by a group of soldiers called the Trident Force.

Overall Series Review

The film centers on the Trident Force, an elite international counter-terrorism unit, tasked with neutralizing the ruthless Palestinian terrorist Abu Hassad. The narrative focuses squarely on competence, military action, and a clear-cut mission of stopping a global threat. The core conflict is a transcendent battle of good versus objective evil, where highly-trained soldiers from various nations must overcome logistical and tactical challenges to protect peace. The movie is a product of its time, prioritizing action and a straightforward anti-terrorism plot over any contemporary social or political lecturing. Characters are defined by their special forces skills and willingness to sacrifice, not their immutable characteristics. There is no sign of self-hatred toward Western or home cultures; instead, the film champions the institutions that fight chaos. The portrayal of men and women adheres to traditional, protective, and civilian roles, with no 'Girl Boss' tropes. The film's primary villain is depicted as an embodiment of moral depravity, contrasting sharply with the disciplined, morally upright special forces unit.

Categorical Breakdown

Identity Politics3/10

Meritocracy is the defining characteristic of the international Trident Force, with the non-Western soldier, Rashid, established as the primary hero and most valuable asset. The main antagonist is an explicitly political and ethnic-based terrorist. One instance of a Western-associated mercenary trainer exhibiting a brief 'racism' plot point against the hero slightly elevates the score from a 1, but the overall theme is universal competency.

Oikophobia1/10

The film’s entire premise is the defense of international peace and order from a destructive, anti-civilizational terrorist organization. The elite special forces from various countries, including Western nations, are framed as the necessary shield against global chaos. Institutions like the military and international cooperation are viewed as sources of strength.

Feminism1/10

The core of the action is handled by the male special forces unit. The main female character is a photojournalist who requires a bodyguard, framing her in a traditional civilian role that requires male protection. A female character who does engage in violence is a suicide bomber for the villain's evil organization. There is no elevation of the 'Girl Boss' trope or messaging that men are incompetent.

LGBTQ+1/10

The story adheres to a normative structure, centering on male military camaraderie and action. The villain is depicted with a highly depraved and non-normative sexuality as a way to illustrate his utter corruption and evil, which serves as the inverse of a modern 'Queer Theory' celebration or centering.

Anti-Theism1/10

The film operates on a foundation of objective morality where terrorism and murder are unambiguous evil. The heroes represent a clear moral good, while the antagonist is an unrepentant villain. Faith and religious institutions are present in the setting, with Muslim states conducting peace talks, and the terrorist's actions are never framed as being the fault of religion itself.