Directed by John McTiernan, the 2003 military thriller Basic is a polarizing, Rashomon -style whodunit featuring John Travolta and Samuel L. Jackson, which is noted for its heavily conflicting flashbacks and a series of complex third-act plot twists. While criticized upon release for favoring a chaotic narrative over realism, the film is often recognized for its atmospheric, rain-soaked setting and the chemistry of its leads. For more details on the cast and plot, visit IMDb . Basic movie review & film summary - Roger Ebert