The Russo brothers’ latest movie had exciting characters in a bloated story
Netflix’s The Gray Man is out for reviewers, and things are mixed at present. Directors Joe and Anthony Russo have made a spy thriller with plenty of action that makes us forget that it’s a movie about spies but with one about superheroes. The directing duo had been directing comedies until they entered the MCU with Captain America: The Winter Soldier. They have left the studio after 2019’s Avengers: Endgame, but it seems they have not been able to get over the superhero routine.
The Gray Man Story
What we notice within some time is that the characters seem invincible. Ryan Gosling’s Court Gentry manages to walk off airplane crashes and grenade explosions without any major damage. Unlike the Jason Bourne or Bond films, there is no realism present. The movie has its fair share of spy cliches, such as a tech guy explaining gizmos, and higher-ups who are hiding big secrets from their spies. And it also becomes clear that many big actors are shown as side characters, but with little to do. Those who fall on this list include Regé-Jean Page, Shea Whigham, and Alfre Woodard. Then there is a side plot of Gentry babysitting the daughter of his handler Donald Fitzroy (Billy Bob Thornton).
Chris Evans plays a good villain as Lloyd Hansen. Gosling brings his humor and charm as a spy on a mission. Ana de Armas is also well in her role, but again, with little screen time. The leads of The Gray Man truly shine.
In Conclusion
The Gray Man is about two spies fighting each other, but we do not get to see proper action as there are way too many smoke, explosions, and cuts that make us truly enjoy good action. The Russos could have made a simpler story that went straight to the point, but made a bloated one instead.
The Gray Man comes to Netflix on Friday, July 22.
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