The Hitman’s Bodyguard

The Hitman's Bodyguard attempts to blend action and comedy with some star power. While it has its moments, the film ultimately falls short of being memorable.

A Chaotic Journey to Justice

The film follows Michael Bryce (Ryan Reynolds), a bodyguard who's seen better days, as he reluctantly takes on the job of protecting hitman Darius Kincaid (Samuel L. Jackson). Kincaid is set to testify against a ruthless dictator, and they must navigate a treacherous journey to the International Court of Justice. Along the way, they face a barrage of misadventures while their clashing personalities create a mix of tension and humor. However, the narrative feels derivative and often predictable, relying on typical buddy-cop tropes that don't elevate the stakes or the plot.

Stars Bring Laughs and Fizz

Ryan Reynolds and Samuel L. Jackson deliver solid performances, playing off each other's comedic timing and charisma. However, many of the supporting characters, like Gary Oldman's villain and Salma Hayek's fiery wife, lack depth and are underutilized. They appear more as caricatures than fully-developed roles, which diminishes the impact of the film's more serious moments. Oldman's Vladislav Dukhovich is menacing but feels like a one-dimensional antagonist. The chemistry between Reynolds and Jackson is the film's highlight, though it occasionally teeters on the edge of over-the-top.

Fast Cuts, Familiar Frames

Directed by Patrick Hughes, the film employs a mix of fast-paced action sequences and comedic moments, though the editing can often feel choppy. The visuals are standard for the genre, with well-choreographed action but little in the way of truly innovative cinematography or striking visuals. The locations, from European cities to chaotic car chases, provide a visually appealing backdrop, but they don’t add anything unique to the experience. Hughes fails to find a balance in tone, making some scenes feel jarringly out of place amidst the action-comedy.

Laughter with a Side of Drag

Watching The Hitman's Bodyguard feels like a mixed bag; it has its share of laugh-out-loud moments but also drags through predictable plot points. The pacing tends to stall during the quieter moments, leaving viewers waiting for the next burst of action or humor. The film tries to inject emotional stakes with Kincaid’s relationship with his wife, Sonia, but these attempts often fall flat, overshadowed by the film’s reliance on slapstick humor and one-liners. At times, it feels like it’s trying too hard to be funny, which can lead to frustration.