The Old Guard (2020)

6.8 /10

Director: Gina Prince-Bythewood

Based on: The Old Guard by Greg Rucka and Leandro Fernández

Star Cast: Charlize Theron, KiKi Layne, Matthias Schoenaerts, Marwan Kenzari, Luca Marinelli, Harry Melling, Chiwetel Ejiofor

Running Time: 125 minutes

Genre: Action, Drama

Synopsis: A group of immortal mercenaries led by Andy (Charlize Theron) have to protect a US marine Nile (KiKi Layne) stationed in Afghanistan while eliminating all possibilities of exposing their secret existence at all costs.

Marwan Kenzari, Matthias Schoenaerts, Charlize Theron, Luca Marinelli and KiKi Layne in The Old Guard (Left to Right)

Netflix released its new superhero movie The Old Guard at a time when everyone is waiting for Marvel's Black Widow and DC's Wonder Woman 1984. It's the tale of a group of immortal soldiers living for centuries, saving the world without exposing their supernatural identity. But an ex-CIA agent in the hope that they can be a cure to many existing diseases, reveals their secret identity to Merrick (Harry Melling) CEO of a pharmaceutical giant. Meanwhile, the group came to know about the existence of a new soldier and they must help her to understand what's happening with her.

Gina Prince-Bythewood has done a wonderful job. She not only showcases the powerful action and drama we usually see in superhero films but also explores the burden of superpowers, which is immortality here and its effects on the characters. She wanted us (viewers) to feel the pain and grief of each member of this group living for centuries, having fought many wars, having seen the death of their dear ones but still self-discovering the gift. They are immune to physical injuries but susceptible to mental trauma.

Charlize Theron as Andy in The Old Guard

All the actors have given wonderful performances. The story is average but keeps you engaged mostly. The cinematography is quite good. As mentioned earlier direction is great. Action sequences are mind-blowing and brutally violent. Charlize Theron chopping heads & hands off enemies with her stylish axe is a hell of an experience. The portrayal of LGBT characters is a bold step and has already been praised a lot.

Now talking about negative points, Harry Melling doesn't suit as a villain. It looks like they tried him to look like Batman Vs Superman's Lex Luthor played by Jesse Eisenberg. But he totally disappoints. Strong antagonists are a must for superhero movies. The soundtracks are disappointing too and never sync with the scenes on screen. The film's straightforward approach makes it predictable at times.

Chiwetel Ejiofor as Ex-CIA Agent Copley in The Old Guard

There is also a post-credits scene, so we can look forward to the possibility of a sequel. "The Old Guard" has laid the groundwork for the sequel, which we hope will be even more interesting and exciting. Perhaps we'll learn more about these superheroes' pasts in future instalments.

Overall, "The Old Guard" is worth a watch. Despite some flaws, it entertains with impressive action sequences. If you like watching compelling action movies with average plots, this movie won't disappoint you.

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