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Greetings again from the darkness. Spy-thrillers typically fall into one of two categories: complex and smart (TINKER TAILOR SPY, 2011) or action-packed (KANDAHAR, 2023), although many combine the two elements quite successfully (MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE, 1996). This film from director Roel Reine and screenwriter Bob Derosa slams us with action sequences while only teasing us with bits of what could have been a clever story.
Aaron Eckhart stars as ultra-talented (dangerous) operative Evan Shaw. Yet despite his particular set of skills, it turns out Evan doesn’t even know who he works for … or at least who the guy he works for (limited screen time Tim Roth) works for. And he is somehow blissfully unaware that a young lady, Kacey Walker (Abigail Breslin) is following him. Evan always carries a sketchbook. He uses it to decode the messages he receives in the classified section of old school newspapers (the ones printed on paper), and to draw the areas and people he crosses paths with – think of it as pretty incriminating evidence of his past deeds.
At first neither Evan nor us viewers know the point Kacey is trying to make, but she certainly exposes the sham structure he’s been working under and puts them both in mortal danger. The team sent to end Evan is led by a guy carrying a GPS device and barking orders while sporting a horrible haircut. This leads to too many shootouts to count, each with some of the worst aim that we’ve ever witnessed – either that or Evan is a superhero. His flesh and blood are revealed at one point disproving the superhero theory, but it should be noted that some of the worst electronic music you’ve ever hear plays over action sequences.
On the bright side, some of the cinematography belongs in a better movie, as does Mr. Eckhart. The final shootout goes so overboard, I actually felt a bit sorry for Aaron Eckhart, the professional actor. It’s a high-octane spy thriller with lots of gunplay for those seeking more booms and bangs. For those looking for the cleverly woven multi-faceted spy plot, it’s probably best to keep looking.
Releases on VOD and digital on October 22, 2024
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