Gal Gadot and director Tom Harper attempt to launch another action franchise in Netflix’s Heart of Stone. Greg Rucka and Allison Schroeder pen the film’s screenplay, introducing us to Rachel Stone (Gal Gadot), an inexperienced tech on an elite MI6 unit headed by lead agent Parker (Jamie Dornan).
Her MI6 team doesn’t know Stone works for the Charter — a covert peacekeeping organization, secret even from other spies, using cutting-edge technology to neutralize global threats. Rachel has been trained to be the consummate professional: a phenomenal field agent who sticks to the mission follows the numbers, and trusts no one. When a routine task is derailed by mysterious hacker Keya Dhawan (Alia Bhatt), Rachel’s two lives collide. As she races to protect the Charter and strives to beat the odds, her humanity might be her most significant asset.
The most recent action movie released by Netflix has been dramatically enhanced by the skilled direction of Tom Harper and the use of some awe-inspiring visual effects. However, the captivating on-screen chemistry between the two lead actors, Jamie Dornan and Gal Gadot, elevates this film. Their dynamic and engaging performances breathe life into the story, making it a worthwhile experience at home.
If all the positive elements of the film are lame somewhere, it is that we have seen them before, and we have seen many of them in better versions. Despite lacking standout qualities, I still found the film enjoyable and fulfilling. Gadot’s performance is dedicated and captivating, immersing herself completely in the action.
While it may not leave a lasting impression or urge repeat viewings, the time spent watching it is thoroughly entertaining, especially in the company of Rachel Stone.
Final Grade: C+
Heart of Stone is available to stream now on Netflix.
Martial arts auteur Siyu Cheng delivers his latest action-packed fest in “The Tai Chi Master” from Well Go USA. The Tai Chi Master” examines the journey of Zhang Junbao, a dedicated disciple of Wuji, who emerges as a crucial figure during significant upheaval.
On a musical level, the documentary is a library of Williams’ great works. It’s dramatic performances of his most famous songs, such as the classic “Star Wars” marches, the grand piano music from “Jurassic Park,” and the melancholy music from “Schindler’s List.” Each song is part of a narrative, a call to revisit old films and remember their heart-wrenching connections. Its thrilling finale (which celebrated his work on “Harry Potter”) also underscores the longevity of his music among audiences today.
Megan Fox teams up with director S.K. Dale to bring her feminine wiles to the world of A.I. in “Subservience” from XYZ Films. Will Honley and April Maguire wrote the film’s screenplay. Alice (Fox) is a lifelike, artificially intelligent android who can care for any family and home. Looking for help with the housework, struggling father Nick (Michele Morrone) purchases Alice after his wife Maggie (Madeline Zima) becomes sick. Alice suddenly becomes self-aware and wants everything her new family has to offer, starting with the affection of her owner — and she’ll kill to get it.