J S

I wanted to like the movie but by the time it ended I was left disappointed. The action set pieces can be visually impressive but they’re nothing more than hollow spectacles designed to distract from a lack of substance. Bay's obsession with explosions and destruction rob genuine tension and emotional investment from the viewing experience. This, and a relentless momentum, coupled with incoherent storytelling, prevents the audience from catching their breath and engaging with the film on any meaningful level. Visually the film pops with style and looks sharp, but Bay's penchant for dizzying shots, rapid cuts, and excessive use of shaky cam becomes a hindrance rather than an enhancement. The incessant movement and lack of stability in the visuals can make it difficult to follow the action or appreciate any potential craftsmanship or creativity. Bay is more concerned with bombarding the viewer with nonsensical, mind-numbing action rather than crafting a cohesive and immersive experience. The movie really started to hit a nerve when the absurd Mexican stereotyping permeated throughout the second half of the film. Bay's lazy and offensive portrayal of Mexican characters is both cringe-inducing and inexcusable. From the exaggerated accents to the tired cultural clichés, the movie leans on tired stereotypes that should have been left in the past. At the end of the day Ambulance is a textbook example of style over substance but with Michael Bay as the director is that really a surprise to anyone? 2 outta 5