Conspiracy Theories Add Intrigue

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MOVIE REVIEW
Angel Has Fallen
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Genre: Action
Year Released: 2019, 2024 Walmart Exclusive Steelbook
Runtime: 2h 1m
Director(s): Ric Roman Waugh
Writer(s): Robert Mark Kamen, Matt Cook, Ric Roman Waugh, Creighton Rothenberger, Katrin Benedikt
Cast: Gerard Butler, Morgan Freeman, Jada Pinkett Smith, Nick Nolte, Danny Huston, Tim Blake Nelson, Lance Reddick
Where To Watch: available now, order your Walmart Exclusive copy here: www.walmart.com

RAVING REVIEW: In the action-packed thriller ANGEL HAS FALLEN, the stakes escalate dramatically for Secret Service Agent Mike Banning, portrayed by Gerard Butler with gritty conviction. Thrust into a precarious position, Banning faces allegations of plotting against President Allan Trumbull, depicted by Morgan Freeman. The film captivates its audience with a tightly spun web of intrigue and high-octane action as Banning races against time to prove his innocence and unmask the real villain.

Beginning with a moment of introspection, ANGEL HAS FALLEN quickly spirals into turmoil following a devastating assault that decimates the Secret Service, casting Trumbull into danger and pointing the finger of blame at Banning. This pivotal event triggers a relentless quest for redemption. Throughout this journey, Butler's deep dive into Banning's psyche, wrestling with personal demons, adds a robust layer to the narrative fabric.

Directed by Ric Roman Waugh, the film distinguishes itself from its predecessors by rooting its action in realism—eschewing over-the-top CGI for ground-level stunts and real explosions. This grounding infuses the film with an authenticity that enhances the thrills of high-speed chases and hand-to-hand combat, making it a standout chapter in the trilogy.

At the heart of the film is the fraught yet poignant relationship between Banning and his estranged father, portrayed by Nick Nolte. Their complex dynamic infuses the narrative with warmth and humor, countering the film's intense action. Nolte's rugged conspiracy theorist character adds significant depth, highlighting familial bonds amidst the chaos.

Despite its strengths, the film navigates familiar territory, echoing elements from renowned action thrillers that lend predictability to its plot twists. Additionally, some action sequences are diminished by subpar CGI (if only they could have avoided it as a whole,) briefly disrupting the film's otherwise immersive experience.

Nonetheless, ANGEL HAS FALLEN explores deep thematic territory with themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and redemption. Banning's evolution from a stereotypical action hero to a multi-dimensional protagonist provides a fresh perspective on heroism enriched by introspective reflection.

In an era that was marred by the contentious presidency of Donald Trump, ANGEL HAS FALLEN presents an alternative political reality with Morgan Freeman’s portrayal of President Allan Trumbull—opting for a leader who embodies a steadier, more dignified presence reminiscent of Barack Obama rather than reflecting the polarizing figure then in the White House. By doing so, the film sidesteps the divisiveness of contemporary politics, creating a backdrop that supports a narrative of unity and integrity rather than one mired in the controversies of its time. This strategic choice enhances the film's appeal to a broader audience and anchors it in a sort of cinematic safe harbor that feels familiar and aspirational.

Though in limited roles, the supporting cast enriches the plot, including Jada Pinkett Smith and Piper Perabo. Veteran actors Lance Reddick and Tim Blake Nelson deliver strong performances that anchor the film's dramatic undertones. The screenplay’s subtle commentary on contemporary geopolitical issues, like foreign interference, adds a layer of timeliness without overt politicization.

ANGEL HAS FALLEN emerges as an impressive if not flawed, action thriller that honors the conventions of its genre and enhances them with a significant study of its characters. It revitalizes the familiar figure of the action hero by presenting a protagonist who is as vulnerable as he is valiant. As the series progresses, it must evolve, blending traditional action motifs with fresh narrative elements to maintain its relevance and resonance with audiences.

SPECIAL FEATURES
Even Angels Fall: The Story
Someone to Watch Over Me: New Blood
Calling All Angels: Casting
True Faith: Authenticity
Fight for You: Stunts and Action
Earth Angel: Recreating DC
Angel Declassified (3 scenes broken down with commentary by writer-director Ric Roman Waugh)

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[photo courtesy of LIONSGATE]

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