War drama ‘Act of Valor’ takes number one spot in weekend box office

The much anticipated war drama "Act of Valor" hit theatres this past weekend to huge success.

The film took the number one spot in the weekend box office, grossing nearly $25 million.

Rather than actors, the film features real active duty U.S. Navy SEALS and portrays true events.

In the movie, an elite team of Navy SEALS is called upon to rescue a captured CIA agent and stop a band of jihadist terrorists from entering the United States.

The film is packed with action and unprecedented combat scenes.

If you listen closely during a lull in the gunfire, you can hear the men breathing. Between the active duty SEALS and the special effects, you feel like you are right along side the team.

Although there were plenty of explosions and lots of gunfire, the movie was not excessively gory.

Some scenes were worse than others, but don't expect a "Saw" type movie.

Outside of the combat scenes, the acting in the movie was mediocre at best, but you can't take away from the SEALS efforts.

The use of real military personnel created a side to the movie that lacks in most war dramas – family.

"Act of Valor" does a great job capturing the emotions that the men and their families feel while they are away on missions.

Other underlying themes in the movie include the bonds of brotherhood formed between military men, willingness for

self-sacrifice and incredible honor.

Keith Urban, Sugarland and Lady Antebellum were among the long list of country artists that helped put together the soundtrack.

Film composer Nathan Furst complemented them with unique tracks of instrumental music.

Despite subpar acting, no other film can compare to the revolutionary combat scenes in "Act of Valor."

If you're a war film junkie or just like suspenseful, heart-pounding movies, this is a groundbreaking must see.