Back in April, Netflix released the film Extraction, a forgettable, repetitive, and ridiculously terrible action flick that resulted in one of the shortest and most negative blog posts I have ever had to write. Made all the more annoying by the number of talented people involved in the production. Including actor Chris Hemsworth, producer and writer Joe Russo (based on his graphic novel), and stunt coordinator turned first-time director Sam Hargrave, whom I regarded as in way over his head. The only aspect of the film I had anything nice to say about was the fifteen-minute long take chase sequence, which might have been more impressive had it not been released after 1917. It was enough of an awful experience to discourage me from trying anymore future original content on Netflix. Even when I initially heard of today's movie, The Old Guard, I was understandably hesitant. Just like Extraction, it's an action movie based on a graphic novel. However, unlike Extraction, The Old Guard has some more exciting talent on its production staff. Resulting in a film that not only has better action scenes but a much more in-depth narrative. This may be a bit of violent action schlock, but at least it has a better reason to be so.
Based on the graphic novel by Greg Rucka and Leonardo Fernandez, the story follows a group of elite mercenaries who, unbeknownst to their clients, happen to be immortal. They have been working together for thousands of years, always seeking to help those in need, the best they can. Their immortality has been kept secret until one fateful mission where they are caught on camera surviving an onslaught of automatic weapons fire. Now they must start all over again and hide from whoever wants their secrets. Complicating matters further is the recent discovery of a brand new immortal. Now they must find their latest member and take her under their wing. All the while, evading whoever is after them.
What's actually kind of funny about this film is that it doesn't really "feel" like a movie. That's not to say that it's not entertaining. It has tons of entertainment value to boot. What I mean is that it seems a little less like a movie and more like an entire eight-episode series combined into a single presentation. Without spoilers, the story progresses in much the same way as an episodic series, complete with a sequel bait conclusion. It's almost as if this started out as a series, then converted into a movie. The good news is, at the very least, it never feels disjointed or clunky. It just feels as if it was meant to be something else.
As you would expect, Charlize Theron is the best part of the film. Having proven herself as a capable action star with Atomic Blonde and Mad Max: Fury Road, she comes back to kick some more butt. Only this time, she's got a custom made Battle Axe.
While I caution some viewers for tasteful graphic violence, the film provides enough entertainment for a night of mindless fun. If you need something fresh for an action "shclockathon," this is a decent one to consider.
Ladies & gentlemen, I am TheNorm, thank you all for reading.
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