Andrew Jepson

Most of the movie is great - reminds me of a Black Mirror episode of the horrors that a person of extreme desperation may bring about to themselves. Seeing and knowing things are going to deconstruct horribly adds very well to the horror of the movie. The main character isnt very believable and I felt deviated from "plan" with such extreme disregard... but alas, realism isnt a place for a movie like this. Every character is made in an extreme lens. There are also layers of messaging one could interpret here of the relentless objectification and scrutinization of older men (and I see the director emphasized white men). It also shows a good message of such beauty standards creating a monster of people... literally. So, there are many parts of this film that I bet many will resonate with, and I can see why others would rate it much higher. But for me, I thought the ending was ridiculous and silly. It totally flushed away any seriousness I built in the film. I get it was for the sake of artistry and having the extremism make a lasting impression - which it did, but I really didnt care for it. I think it could've ended in other ways and still punch its message home hard. Worth a watch, as it is unique and had a good underlying message, but I think its far from a great movie.

Short and sweet: its a fun action thriller that isnt anything to write home about, but provides solid entertainment and I think its worth a watch for a fun lil action flick to kill time on. It is NOT realistic and I doubt that this movie(like most mainstream action movies) sets out to be that way. People rate it poorly because they dont like the british actor playing an American, that some of the things that happen (or didnt happen) wouldnt be that way in real life, that it isnt as awesome as Die Hard, or that it doesnt break any major new ground. Idk, but if you watched the trailer and are thinking the premise may be a fun casual watch with family or friends over the holiday break and are capable of suspending your disbelief for an action movie - you're probably going to have a good time. If you strongly on that list of things people are hating on it for - why even bother watching it or reading reviews on it? The trailer gives a perfect depiction of what to expect and if you dont like it, dont waste your time. Its fun, its unrealistic, actors are decent, its suspenseful at times, and its probably worth one watch if youre into this kinda thing. Always be cautious with 1-star reviewers - so quick and easy to spout off on movies that they aren't the target audience for. Trust your intuition on previews and if you can see if this is the type of movie youre probably looking for and watch it for yourself.