Canary Black (2024)
Lead actors: Kate Beckinsale, Rupert Friend, Ray Stevenson, Saffron Burrows
Review: Canary Black (2024) is an action-thriller directed by Pierre Morel, known for his work on Taken. The film stars Kate Beckinsale as Avery Graves, a CIA operative thrust into a perilous mission when her husband, David (Rupert Friend), is kidnapped. To secure his release, Avery must retrieve a top-secret file known as “Canary Black,” all while evading her own agency and navigating a web of deceit.
The narrative follows a familiar trajectory reminiscent of Morel’s previous works, presenting a high-stakes rescue mission filled with action sequences and plot twists. Set against the backdrop of European locales, particularly Croatia, the film offers a visually engaging experience. Beckinsale delivers a performance that combines physical prowess with emotional depth, embodying a character determined to save her loved one at any cost.
Despite its promising premise, Canary Black has received mixed reviews. Critics have noted that while the film contains well-executed action scenes, it struggles with a formulaic plot and character development. The Guardian describes it as “blandly generic,” highlighting that the gender flip does little to invigorate the familiar storyline.
Similarly, AVForums refers to the film as a “slick piece of tone-deaf tedium,” suggesting it falls short of expectations.
On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a low approval rating, with critiques pointing out its lack of thrilling or dramatic impact.
User reviews on IMDb echo these sentiments, with some viewers comparing it to a “low-budget B-movie” and criticizing its predictable plot and clichéd dialogue.
In summary, Canary Black offers a blend of espionage and action that may appeal to fans of the genre. However, its reliance on well-worn tropes and a lack of innovative storytelling may leave some audiences wanting more. While it provides a platform for Beckinsale’s action-oriented talents, the film doesn’t significantly distinguish itself within the crowded field of spy thrillers.