"Shadow Force" Offers Light Entertainment with Mid-Range Impact"
Kerry Washington and Omar Sy's chemistry elevate the film's off-putting pace
Following the highly enjoyable "Copshop", action director Joe Carnahan enlists another female melanin lead for Lionsgate's latest action opus, "Shadow Force"." co-wrote the screenplay with Leon Chills.
Kyrah (Kerry Washington) and Isaac (Omar Sy) were once the leaders of a multinational special forces group called Shadow Force, but they broke the rules by falling in love. After hiding for years, they are soon discovered by their former handler, Jack (Mark Strong), who either wants them back in the fold or six feet under.
Determined not to abandon their new life, the couple hides to protect their son, Ky (played by Jahleel Kamara), while the rest of the Shadow Force pursues them. Thankfully, they have some old friends willing to help: Unc (Method Man) and Auntie (Da'Vine Joy Randolph), who are prepared to assist them by any means necessary.
From the first trailer for "Shadow Force," some moviegoers may have felt that this was a story they had seen before. They would be correct, as the film "Back in Action" starring Jamie Foxx and Cameron Diaz was released in January. However, as an avid cinephile, I always keep in mind that there are only seven basic plots, and what truly matters is the execution of the narrative, in this case, the handling of the action sequences.
"Shadow Force" quickly establishes its premise by showcasing Kerry Washington's character in action before introducing her husband and son, who are on the other side of the world. We later learn that Kyrah and Isaac had to separate for their own safety. Issac has been raising Ky (who loves Lionel Richie); however, a good Samaritan situation puts Issac back onto Jack's radar.
Omar Sy (who replaced Sterling K Brown due to scheduling issues) brings an organic flair to Issac, whether bonding with his son or taking out bad guys. Jahleel Kamara is a real find in the role of Ky, and he nearly steals every scene with just the right amount of childlike wonder. Kerry Washington is also good as a strong-willed woman, and the trio makes for a real family.
Method Man and Oscar winner Da'Vine Joy Randolph have scene-stealing moments, and I wouldn't mind seeing them together in another film. Mark Strong provides his usual schtick as our key villain. However, the rest of the villains are also wasted. I was hoping for more from Krondon, but he's reduced to a petty thug, while the rest of the villains fall into typical action movie tropes.
In addition, the pacing and the editing seem off in the film, which is surprising considering Carnahan's previous work. The tone of the film gives off that he was a director for hire, as this wasn't a passion project for him. I like a mindless action movie as much as the next film fan, but something was missing from the final cut.
Nevertheless, the leads are good, and there were enough moments that made me crack a smile to give "Shadow Force" a matinee recommendation.
Final Grade: B-
"Shadow Force" is in theatres now