The story begins with DEA agent Tom Hardy (played by John Travolta) being called in to investigate the disappearance of a Special Forces drill sergeant, Nathan West (played by Samuel L. Jackson), and his trainees during a training exercise in the Panamanian jungle. The only survivor is a traumatized soldier named Dunbar (played by Brian Van Holt).
As Hardy questions Dunbar about the events leading up to the disappearance, he encounters resistance from the military authorities, who are eager to cover up the incident and protect their reputation. Hardy teams up with Captain Julia Osborne (played by Connie Nielsen), a former colleague and romantic interest, to uncover the truth.
Through a series of flashbacks, Dunbar recounts the events of the training exercise, revealing a complex web of deceit, betrayal, and murder among the soldiers. As Hardy delves deeper into the case, he discovers that everyone has a hidden agenda and that nothing is as it seems.
In the climax of the film, Hardy confronts the remaining soldiers and reveals the truth behind the disappearance of Nathan West and his trainees. It is revealed that West was involved in a scheme to steal drug money hidden in the jungle, and that the entire training exercise was a cover-up for their illegal activities.
In a dramatic showdown, Hardy exposes the corrupt soldiers and brings them to justice, while also uncovering the truth about Osborne’s involvement in the conspiracy. In the end, justice is served, but Hardy is left to grapple with the moral ambiguity of the situation and the toll it has taken on him personally and professionally.
“Basic” is a tense and suspenseful thriller that keeps audiences guessing until the very end. With its intricate plot, unexpected twists, and intense performances, the movie offers a thrilling ride for fans of mystery and suspense.