A top, triple A rated, bodyguard, Michael Bryce (Ryan Reynolds – Life, Deadpool), is struggling after an incident that cost a client their life. Now he unwillingly gets a new client, a hit man, Darius Kincaid (Samuel L. Jackson – Kong: Skull Island, xXx: Return of Xander Cage), who must testify at the International Court of Justice against powerful dictator Vladislav Dukhovich (Gary Oldman – The Space Between Us, Child 44). The two have a history, and now must put their differences aside and work together to make it to the trial on time.
Darius has agreed to testify, if his wife Sonia Kincaid (Salma Hayek – Sausage Party, Everly), is free from prison. Yet, the entire job of protecting Darius is thrust on the unwilling Michael by his ex, Interpol agent Amelia Roussel (Elodie Yung – G.I. Joe: Retaliation).
The Hitman’s Bodyguard is what you might get if you mix 16 Blocks, Die Hard with a Vengeance and Deadpool together. It is a fun action film, with lots of shooting, running, chasing and explosions. Yes there is a story in there somewhere, one that isn’t too hard to follow. But, this is one of those films where it looks like the cast decided to have fun filming, and no worry about ticking off a checklist for filmmaking. And this translates to the film. Sit back, switch off your brain, and have a laugh as you’re taking on a ride.
There are many moments in the film where it feels like things might have gone a bit over the top, but this adds to the charm of the story. The two main characters, Michael and Darius, compete like naughty school boys as they try survive their journey. Throw in some love advice shared between the two, and a few life lessons, and it all makes for an interesting, if oddly matched mix.
The Hitman’s Bodyguard is a fun movie. It’s plain action, with a comedy mix, and is sure to appeal to any audience that is looking for a bit of an escape and some fun viewing.
The Hitman’s Bodyguard opens 18 August 2017 in South African cinemas.
