Golden Globe nominee Eva Green reunites with her “Casino Royale” director Martin Campbell for the tense action-thriller “Dirty Angels” from Lionsgate. Campbell co-writes the screenplay alongside Alissa Sullivan Haggis and Jonas McCord.
The film opens by introducing us to an American soldier named Jake (Green), who is seconds away from being executed while on her latest top-secret mission. While Jake is rescued, her team ends up losing their lives, adding to Jake’s PTSD. A few years later, during the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, a group of schoolgirls was taken hostage in Afghanistan. Jake’s old boss, Travis (Christopher Backus), recruits her to join an all-women commando unit to liberate them.
The team consists of weapons expert Shooter (Emily Bruni), demolitions expert The Bomb (Maria Bakalova), technology specialist Geek (JoJo T. Gibbs), and medic Jane (Ruby Rose). Their strategy is straightforward: they aim to establish trust with the terrorists by posing as members of a humanitarian relief organization. However, the mission becomes complicated due to unforeseen betrayals, tragic events, and the lingering effects of Jake’s past. Ultimately, this operation evolves into a critical do-or-die endeavor.
Even before directing a “Bond” film in 1995, I always believed Martin Campbell was an underrated action director. He has collaborated with notable actors such as Jackie Chan, Mel Gibson, Antonio Banderas, and the late great Ray Liotta in solid films that rose above action tropes. Unfortunately, his latest movie has a pretty good concept and the potential for some significant stakes drama, but the execution leaves one a little divided.
The movie features a talented female ensemble cast, including Maria Bakalova, Ruby Rose, and Jojo T. Gibbs. Green delivers a strong performance as Jake, effectively balancing fragility and aggression. The chemistry among the female commando team is compelling, adding emotional depth to the story.
The action revolves around infiltrating a terrorist group disguised as a relief organization, creating suspense and character development. The film effectively highlights Jake’s internal struggles, adding depth to the fast-paced narrative.
However, “Dirty Angels” occasionally falls into familiar action-thriller clichés, with rushed plot twists that detract from immersion. However, moments of genuine tension, pacing issues, and a weak script limit its emotional impact.
Visually stunning, the film captures Afghanistan’s harsh landscapes but sometimes prioritizes spectacle over character development. While it showcases strong performances and thrilling action, it struggles between tradition and originality, creating an exciting yet uneven viewing experience.
Final Grade: C+
“DIRTY ANGELS” is coming to Select Theaters and On Demand on Friday, December 13, 2024.
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