Stop-Loss is a 2008 war drama film directed by Kimberly Peirce and starring Ryan Phillippe, Channing Tatum, and Joseph Gordon-Levitt. The film follows the story of Sergeant Brandon King, a decorated veteran of the Iraq War who returns home to Texas after completing his tour of duty.
Despite hoping for a peaceful life with his family and girlfriend, Michelle, Brandon is shocked to discover that he has been stop-lossed, a controversial policy that allows the military to involuntarily extend a soldier's service beyond their agreed-upon contract. The orders mean that Brandon must return to Iraq for another tour of duty, something he vehemently opposes.
Feeling betrayed and disillusioned, Brandon goes AWOL and flees to Mexico with Michelle and his best friend, Steve. However, as they struggle to navigate a new life on the run, Brandon's guilt and sense of obligation to his fellow soldiers begin to weigh heavily on him, and he ultimately decides to turn himself in and face the consequences of his actions.
With powerful performances from its cast and a gripping storyline that explores the emotional toll of war on soldiers and their loved ones, Stop-Loss is a thought-provoking and timely examination of the complex issues surrounding military service and the impact of war on those who serve.