"The Dogs of War" is a 1980 film directed by John Irvin, based on the novel by Frederick Forsyth. The story follows a group of mercenaries hired to overthrow a fictional African government. The film explores themes of greed, loyalty, and the moral complexities of war. The title refers to the mercenaries, often seen as ruthless and driven by profit. The film highlights the impact of conflict on both the soldiers and the local population. It raises questions about the ethics of private military operations and the consequences of foreign intervention in sovereign nations.