Genres
Movie Overview & Analysis
Luc Besson's 'Anna' attempts to blend glamour with a gritty assassin backstory, but it often feels like two different movies vying for attention. While there are moments of intrigue, the execution leaves much to be desired.
A Mixed Bag of Intrigue
'Anna' is filled with potential but ultimately stumbles over its ambitious intentions. While it offers some visually appealing moments and a strong central performance, the convoluted plot and uneven pacing detract from what could have been a more engaging experience.
Film DNA
The radar scores reflect a film that has some visual flair and originality but struggles with emotional impact and story depth. It might entertain some, but it's not likely to leave a lasting impression.
Pros
- Strong performance by Sasha Luss
- Visually appealing cinematography
Cons
- Convoluted and disjointed plot
- Underutilized supporting characters
For Specific Action Fans
'Anna' may appeal to fans of stylish action films and Besson enthusiasts, but it's likely to frustrate those seeking substance over style. If you enjoy plots centered on assassins with a dose of intrigue, you might find something to appreciate here. However, viewers who favor well-structured narratives or character-driven stories may find themselves disappointed. The film's pacing and nonlinear storytelling could easily turn away casual viewers or those preferring a straightforward narrative.
Assassin's Dual Life
The film centers on Anna Poliatova, a strikingly beautiful woman who leads a double life as a government assassin. As she navigates a world filled with intrigue from the KGB and CIA during the Cold War, her skills are put to the test. The narrative jumps around in time, revealing her training and gradual rise in the deadly underworld, but this non-linear storytelling can be disorienting. While the premise of a femme fatale is intriguing, the plot often feels stretched and convoluted, losing its grip on coherence as it unfolds.
Stars Shine, Others Fade
Sasha Luss gives a commendable performance as Anna, successfully embodying both vulnerability and lethal ferocity. Helen Mirren shines as Olga, bringing a certain gravitas that underscores her mentor role. However, Luke Evans as Alex feels underutilized, with his character lacking depth and dimension. Cillian Murphy's portrayal of Lenny is promising but ultimately falls flat due to erratic character development. The supporting cast rounds out the film but fails to leave a significant impact, which makes some moments feel hollow rather than engaging.
Stylish Yet Confusing
Besson's direction is stylish but uneven, with action sequences that swing from thrilling to tedious. The cinematography captures the opulence of settings from Paris to Milan, yet the pacing can feel sluggish, especially during dialogue-heavy scenes. The film's visual choices are striking at times, using bold colors and sharp angles, yet this flair sometimes distracts from the narrative. There are moments where the editing feels jarring, particularly as it shifts between past and present, leaving viewers more confused than entertained.
Tension That Comes and Goes
Watching 'Anna' can be a mixed experience; there are flashes of tension and excitement, but also long stretches of boredom. The heavy reliance on stylistic choices sometimes overshadows emotional engagement, with viewers left waiting for something to truly resonate. While there are moments of potential, the film often stalls, making it challenging to invest in Anna’s journey. The emotional payoff feels lacking, and by the end, you might find yourself more exhausted than exhilarated.
Watch if you liked: Atomic Blonde, La Femme Nikita
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