Director Seth Gordon reunites Oscar Winner Jamie Foxx and four-time Golden Globe nominee Cameron Diaz for a third time in Netflix’s action comedy, “Back in Action.” Gorden also pens the script with Brendan O’Brien.
After their latest mission goes left, Matt (Foxx) and Emily (Diaz) are forced to fake their death and go into hiding. Fifteen years later, the two former spies have settled into a life of suburbia, raising their two kids, Alice (McKenna Roberts) and Leo (Rylan Jackson). Naturally, their kids feel their parents are uncool, and the inquisitive Alice thinks they are hiding something about the past.
One evening, after Alice clandestinely leaves the house, Matt and Emily’s parental instincts are activated, resulting in the couple gaining significant online attention. This viral incident creates a chain reaction that puts them back in the sights of former adversaries. Consequently, the family embarks on a journey to England, reuniting with Emily’s mother, Ginny (portrayed by Glenn Close). Together, they devise a strategy to confront their longstanding enemies and safeguard their newly established life.
The primary appeal of “Back in Action” for many audiences is the return of Cameron Diaz to the screen following a ten-year hiatus. The actress reenters acting with commendable ease and demonstrates her well-established comedic presence as a spy who becomes a mother. At fifty-three, she exhibits remarkable athleticism and agility in portraying a character who effectively confronts adversaries.
Mr. Foxx once again demonstrates his characteristic male bravado in action roles. However, it was surprising that he restrained his comedic elements and did not deliver any memorable one-liners. Nevertheless, it is evident that he is enjoying the experience of portraying a father again and reuniting with his former co-star, Ms. Diaz.
The supporting cast delivers what you would expect. McKenna Roberts and Rylan Jackson provide the right amount of angst as a teen and preteen without ever crossing the line into disrespect, while Glenn Close makes for a good grandmother. Sadly, the usually reliable Kyle Chandler, Matt and Emily’s handler, was wasted.
For the most part, “Back in Action” delivers what you would expect of a film utilizing the recycled plot line of former spies in suburbia, illuminating the film’s flaws. When the credits rolled, it all felt a little safe and routine, and in the hands of two lesser actors, it may have crashed and burned. Furthermore, even a novice viewer will discover the film’s hackneyed twist. The film’s ending does hint at a sequel, so hopefully, they can tighten things should this be a hit.
Nevertheless, thanks to the charm of Diaz and Foxx, “Back in Action” will entertain fans of both as a one-time watch.
Final Grade B-
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