Review of Haywire (2011) by Kia M — 22 Oct 2012

I went to the movie theatre to see this action film. Here's a list of pluses and minuses:

+ enough action and unarmed fighting scenes make it interesting, although there could have been more.

- the plot stands still every now and then.

+ but on the other hand the plot is relatively complex and yet followable.

- There are a few scenes which seemed a bit odd, some of them are just little details that one usually may not even pay attention to, like, there's one scene where Mallory Kane is chasing an assassin over someone's car unarmed. The car stops and she runs with boots over the hood. One can see the markings she leaves with her heels on the car. The car driver resumes driving slowly forwards like no problemo, instead of getting angrily out of the car (wouldn't that be normal behaviour when someone damages your vehicle?). A few other small spoofs like that, but nothing serious. Also, amazingly, Mallory Kane is not hit by bullets (usual in action films) even though shot at with automatic weapons at close range.

+ There are famous and very skilled actors, like Douglas, McGregor, Paxton, Fassbender, Banderas..

- but they don't really seem to care that much about their roles, very bland, featureless impressions. Seemed a bit of a waste of talent to me.

+ Although the story has great potential.

- despite many action scenes it doesn't quite reach the level of intensity and intrigue that this sort of spy movie could have. Perhaps it is too short? One or two more action scenes would have helped tremendously.

The film's premise promises much, but delivers a bit too little. The movie, taking place mostly in Europe, resembles slightly the first Jason Bourne film, but lacks the intensity. Possibly the scenes are a bit too short, I am not sure of what it is. There are many skilled actors, but they seem to be on a fun park ride themselves, seeminly not that interested in what is going on, just enjoying the view.

What one is left with is a feeling that the film makers were in a hurry, didn't think so much on the potentials, didn't utilize the superb talent of the actors, and made the movie too short. Slightly better than mediocre action film which could have been even a classic agent movie. Not bad, but nothing to write about to your grandchildren.