Wednesday, November 21, 2018

Movie review: 211

 
 Two cops and a ride-along out on routine patrol land themselves in the middle of a shootout with a band of bank robbing mercenaries.

Nicolas Cage (Mike), Dwayne Cameron (Steve), Michael Rainey Jr. (Kenny), Alexandra Dinu (Agent Rossi), Sophie Skelton (Lisa), Weston Coppola (Luke), Cory Hardrict (Hanson), Ori Pfeffer (Tre).

211 begins with some character introductions and a brief bit of plot setup before disintegrating into a gooey mess. From the start the storyline feels like it is following a template; introduce main characters, introduce parallel storyline, roll in supporting characters and main plot, action, ending. The pieces are all there but, nothing is done with them. The plot was so predictable it was ridiculous leaving the film lacking any kind of real energy at all.

Acting was part of the problem in this one. Cage looked like every Cage-cop he has ever played with the same expressions and tone. Time for a change. Cameron felt uncomfortable from the start, and his overplayed death scene only made it worse. Rainey Jr. was decent enough, while Dinu was obviously just window dressing.

Sets, and backgrounds are only mildly better than other aspects of the film again feeling lifeless. Camera and stunt-work may be the only redeeming qualities of this film. The extended shootout scenes were reasonably well done with good detail and enjoyable video work. Dialogue was dry and lacking depth, or even fit, much of the time. Sound is ok. Soundtrack is boring.

Overall, unless you are an absolute Cage fan, pass on this one. Honestly you could imagine a more entertaining story while doing your taxes.

With some foul language, violence, and gore, save this one for teens and above.

Released: 2018
Reviewed: 11.10.18
Star rating: 2 out of 5
Genre: Crime, Drama, Action

copyright ©2018 Dave Riedel

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