Shadows and Technology Collide

Read Time:3 Minute, 46 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Dark Asset
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Genre: Action, Thriller
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 30m
Director(s): Michael Winnick
Writer(s): Michael Winnick (screenplay by,) Michael Winnick (story by,) Terri Farley-Teruel (story by)
Cast: Byron Mann, Robert Patrick, Helena Mattsson
Where To Watch: releases on UK Digital September 18, 2023, and US September 22

RAVING REVIEW: Embark on an escapade with DARK ASSET, helmed by Michael Winnock. Here, the future's tech marvels meet the dusty cobwebs of espionage. Within moments, Byron Mann's portrayal as John, an undercover agent with a past deeper than most, becomes the center of our attention. Alongside, the cold, calculating Dr. Cain, played by Robert Patrick, and the multifaceted Jane, brought to life by Helena Mattsson, set the cinematic stage.

Imagine a bar setting – a place of allure, mysteries, and covert whispers. Here, John endeavors to start up a connection with the enigmatic Jane. As martini glasses clink and eyes lock, tales of undercover missions, futuristic gadgets, and a scientist with motives darker than a moonless night emerge. As the narrative progresses, the million-dollar question surfaces: Is John simply a master narrator, or is he unveiling his veiled reality?

Digging deeper, DARK ASSET plunges into the world of a soldier, catapulted from routine to a mysterious operation. But beneath the sheen of thrill and mystery lies a more ominous reality with Dr. Cain playing puppeteer from the shadows. The film is at the crossroads of an adrenaline-fueled thriller and a poignant drama. Its nods to iconic cinematic milestones in the action world are subtle, but DARK ASSET firmly roots its feet, ensuring its distinct voice doesn't get drowned. Although as much as it tried to be its creation, it struggles with some of the most fundamental aspects.

While the movie radiates some charm, it has moments reminiscent of early gaming visuals – a nod to its budgetary confines. These tiny glitches, though at times minor, serve as a reminder that the technological revolution in cinema is a double-edged sword. CGI is not a one-stop fix that will let you solve any problem. If it's not believable, it becomes a huge eyesore.

DARK ASSET ambitiously bridges its sophisticated settings with a grounded, tech-driven plot. Yet, there are instances where the connection falters, leaving audiences with slight unfulfillment. Mann's commendable effort sometimes seems dwarfed when juxtaposed against stalwarts like Robert Patrick. And while Patrick lends depth to the narrative, he also magnifies a few of the less dazzling performances scattered throughout.

Prepare for a dizzying journey through DARK ASSET's universe filled with stealthy operations, tech-augmented agents, and enigmatic entities—the movie ventures into bold territory by attempting to blend a traditional spy drama with a dash of sci-fi. Occasionally, however, it seems to bite off more than it can chew.

Kudos to indie cinema's indomitable spirit. But comparing DARK ASSET to Hollywood's titans would be akin to comparing apples to asteroids. Winnock's passion is evident throughout, but sometimes, the film could use just one more coat of polish.

To sum it up, DARK ASSET is a testament to independent filmmaking's spirit. Michael Winnock and the team have laid all cards on the table, crafting a tale that teases the mind. While it might not set new benchmarks, it offers a mix of espionage and tech-driven wonder. Do you think it will succeed?

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[photo courtesy of 101 FILMS]

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