Tom Clancy's "Without Remorse" begins with Michael B. Jordan's character emerging from a pool of water to attack enemy forces. How did they get there and launch an attack from a reservoir? No idea. But that's a majority of this movie.
Side characters make dumb choices, and actions aren't always explained. But man, this movie is a ton of fun.
Audiences are hit with action immediately, and the film doesn't waste any screen time in this modern retelling of Clancy's novel of the same name.
Without Remorse - Official Trailer | Prime Videowww.youtube.com
Directed by Stefano Sollima and co-written by Taylor Sheridan and Will Staples, "Without Remorse" delivers a solid, entertaining film.
John Clark (Jordan) is a tenacious Navy SEAL who will do anything it takes to complete a mission. After participating in a top-secret op three months ago, his family and a few of his fellow teammates are murdered in retaliation. Set on a path to avenge the murderers with fellow SEAL (Jodie Turner-Smith) and a suspicious CIA agent (Jamie Bell), he finds himself in a conspiracy that may put the United States and Russia at war.
Since the trailer dropped, fans of Clancy's novels aren't thrilled that the movie takes place in an entirely different setting with an entirely different plot compared to the book. But general action-movie fans will likely love this film.
The writing is extremely fun. In one memorable scene, Clark sets a car on fire with a person of interest inside and interrogates him at gunpoint. The Jordan's delivery and the scene's tension solidifies that Clark goes the extra mile to get what he wants. But the writing only goes so far when supporting performances are OK.
"Without Remorse" is clearly Jordan's movie, and it shows when other actors' performances don't cut it with flat, sometimes indifferent tones.
At least the fight scenes are done well, and the production is notable because explosions look realistic without Michael Bay-like fire balls.
But as fun as the movie is, it is predictable. It's easy to spot red herrings and plot twists for those who pay attention.
The ending sets up the movie for a sequel, so maybe viewers haven't seen the last of Clark yet. But after this film, what other stunts could creators pull next?
Score: 7/10
"Without Remorse" launches globally and exclusively to Amazon Prime on Friday, April 30.
Follow the reporter at @s_incorvaia.
