Based on target audience research, the filmmakers decided on a storyline involving two mercenaries rescuing a civilian hostage from two terrorists to create a tense "anyone could win" scenario. To make the film attractive and authentic, the factions were given realistic weapons to heighten the serious and tense tone as both sides were armed and ready to kill. Costuming the characters authentically in tactical gear like balaclavas or bandanas for the mercenaries and terrorists respectively aimed to attract a larger audience by making the characters look convincing in their roles.