Review of Rampage (2018) by Allie A — 12 Apr 2018

Rampage is a delightfully fun, popcorn action flick. It has something for everyone-and the relationship between George (played by Jason Liles) and Davis (Dwayne Johnson) is the emotional core of the film.

The climax fight scene is so satisfying, and you might find yourself cheering out loud for George and Davis as they try to save the city. While this film has its plot holes, I ask you: did you really expect a sci-fi/action film based on a video game to have a bullet-proof story? The relationship between George and Davis is what keeps you invested in this film, and Jeffrey Dean Morgan supplies some much needed levity in otherwise serious situations.

Naomie Harris, Malin Ackerman, PJ Byrne, Jack Quaid, Bre Hill, Joe Manganiello, Jake Lacy, Marlee Shelton, and the rest of the supporting cast round out the film, adding in their unique flair to their characters and storylines.

The real star of the film is Jason Liles, the actor who played George ?? via on-set performance capture. He brings life and realism to George, so much so that it is easy to forget you are not looking at a real Gorilla.

It is worth noting that acting via performance capture differs from "regular" acting only in that the performer is not wearing wardrobe for the film, and is instead wearing a specialized suit outfitted with motion capture sensors and a performance capture helmet (which captures the actor's facial expressions/performance).

Jason's performance as George draws the audience in, and gives them a reason to be invested in this film beyond the undeniably charismatic presence of Dwayne Johnson.