Director: Andrew Davis
Writer: David Griffiths, Peter Griffiths (Screenplay) David Griffiths, Peter Griffiths, Ronald Roose (Story)
Starring: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Francesca Neri, Elias Koteas, Cliff Curtis, John Leguizamo, John Turturro
Plot: When firefighter’s Gordy Brewer (Schwarzenegger) family are killed in an explosion the government claim it was just collateral damage. Gordy heads out to Columbia for revenge on the people responsible for the killing his family but doing so he opens up the terrorism that is running wild against America from Columbia.
Verdict: An emotionally driven thriller
Story: When you see Schwarzenegger you expect to see a simple to follow story where Arnie spills out cheap one-liners. This enters a much more serious story and tackles a revenge story that is full of emotion. A hero that isn’t military trained, taking down the people responsible for his family’s murder. It all plays out very well with a few twists and turns as well as likeable characters appearing as the story unfold. (9/10)
Actor Review: Arnold Schwarzenegger – Gordy the firefighter who goes on a mission of revenge against a Columbian terrorist who killed his family. Strong Arnie performance, which was his last good one before his break. Star Performance Award, Action Star Award, Favourite Character Award, Kick Ass Award, Unluckiest Character Award (9/10)
Actor Review: Francesca Neri – Selena the wife of the Wolf who helps Gordy out but has a similar back story for pain in her life. Good performance that plays both sides of the story well. (8/10)
Actor Review: Elias Koteas – Peter an agent with the CIA who is trying to take down the Columbian terrorist but only thinks for himself. Good performance creating an unlikable character with good intentions. (8/10)
Actor Review: Cliff Curtis – The Wolf the terrorist who sets the bomb that kills Gordy’s family. Good performance creating a cold calculated killer that shows no remorse. (8/10)
Actor Review: John Turturro – Armstrong an engineer who helps Gordy. Only a short cameo like role gives important information and lights up the screen. Scene Stealer Award (8/10)
Actor Review: John Leguizamo – Felix a drug producer who brings in Gordy to fix an engine but like Turturro it is only a small cameo like role. Shows his skill in his short time on the screen. (8/10)
Director Review: Andrew Davis – A string of well-directed action dramas continues the trend here. (8/10)
Action: The action is put together well. (9/10)
Thriller: It is thrilling but like much or Schwarzenegger it never really builds. (7/10)
Special Effects: Good special effects throughout. (8/10)
Believability: The war on terrorism is very real and how the innocent people have to deal with the outcome is real but the mission of revenge is not. (4/10)
Chances of Tears: No (0/10)
Settings: Set mostly through Columbia which offers danger round every corner. (8/10)
Suggestion: I personally think this is one of the most underrated Arnie film and it really is one that should be watched. Non-action fans may not like the film. (Watch)
Best Part: The final explosion in the underground.
Worst Part: That the firefighter is smarter than FBI and CIA agents.
Kill Of The Film: The Wolf
Trivia: Was delayed after 9/11 attacks.
Oscar Chances: No
Chances of Sequel: No
Overall: Great action thriller
Rating 
