For a film that attempts to tell the incredible acts of three young Americans that stopped a terrorist attack on a train to Paris, The 15:17 to Paris is about the farthest thing from inspirational, interesting, or honestly even good.

The 15:17 to Paris tells the story of three high school friends who are constantly questioning if they are meant for a greater purpose and showcases the struggles they go through while growing up. The film gives us glimpses of the three as young children in a catholic school setting as well as young adults as they begin to explore opportunities for their future.

While this new entry in director Clint Eastwood’s filmography is unique for actually having the real-life heroes play themselves in the film, this uniqueness is unfortunately the film’s biggest downfall. If you have ever wondered why in films based on true stories do not have the actual people as strong parts of the movies, this film will definitely show you why.

From start to finish, there is not a single ounce of quality acting in this movie whatsoever. The main three have such bleak and monotone personalities that audiences will never be able to enjoy and many will even feel that their lack of acting takes away from the interest of their heroic actions towards the end of the film. Even veterans actresses Jenna Fisher and Judy Greer have very weak performances and are not a part of the film much at all.

There is also a completely lack of pacing and continuity between scenes. There are moments that audiences will question themselves as to when characters were introduced and why characters are acting the way they are. Audiences will also wonder whether this is truly a Clint Eastwood film with a high quality budget or if it is really just a home movie that Eastwood’s name was just somehow attached too.

Worst of all, the film doesn’t make its heroic leads even remotely likable. With each groan and cringe-worthy line that comes out of their mouths, viewers will be dissatisfied and feel little sympathy or care for the struggles they go through.

Sadly, this is a film that no one should have to sit through or spend much money on. There isn’t a shred of good acting or pleasant story-telling in The 15:17 to Paris and it does a true disservice to the telling of truly heroic actions.