Writer: Mukunda Michael Dewil (Screenplay)
Starring: Paul Walker, Naima McLean, Gys de Villiers, Leyla Haidarian, Tshepo Maseko, Andrian Mazive
Plot: A foreign traveler unknowingly picks up a rental car that will tie him to a web of corrupt local police.
There may be spoilers the rest of the review
Verdict: Simple Thriller
Story: Vehicle 19 starts by showing our protagonist Michael Woods (Walker) in a car chase being pursued by the Police in both cars and helicopters. Then a flashback *yay* to ‘earlier’ where we see Michael trying to keep his relationship together and setting out on what should be a simple 20 minute journey. As his journey continues he finds out there is a phone in the glove box and a gun under the seat, this doesn’t help Michael who is trying to turn his life around with his old flame Angelica (Haidarian).
The journey continues to get more complicated for Michael when he finds out the car he has was part of a police undercover job, but things continue to take a turn when he finds a girl locked up in the boot. Michael finds himself stuck in the middle of a police conspiracy that they are trying to cover up.
Vehicle 19 is one that I had only heard bad things about but by now you know I will give any film a go and will judge every film as an individual. This surprised me because of I was expecting something slightly over the top but in the end we get a film set inside the car following Michael around. It may be very simple but does play out entertaining, sure it won’t win any awards but some films are all about the enjoyment. This is simple, never challenges but it is very easy to watch. (6/10)
Actor Review
Paul Walker: Michael Woods former criminal who breaks his parole to try and get back to his ex-wife. He just happens to end up in the wrong car and finds himself being hunted down by the police. Michael would have to race against time to uncover the truth before he gets hunted down. Paul does a good job in a role that he has to carry in the main role while people come into small scenes. (7/10)
Support Cast: Vehicle 19 support cast all come in and out of the scenes quickly or are voices on the phone. They help get to the next chapter of the story though.
Director Review: Mukunda Michael Dewil – Mukunda does a solid job directing this film but never offers anything original to the idea. (6/10)
Action: Vehicle 19 has a couple of good pursuits but nothing that really pushes the barriers. (6/10)
Thriller: Vehicle 19 keeps pulling you into the story as we get into it deeper. (7/10)
Settings: Vehicle 19 uses its South African setting well helping our lead look lost in the city he doesn’t know. (9/10)
Suggestion: Vehicle 19 is one to try, it is easy to watch but don’t expect anything different. (Try It)
Best Part: Chases are good.
Worst Part: It is very simple.
Believability: No (0/10)
Chances of Tears: No (0/10)
Chances of Sequel: No
Post Credits Scene: No
Similar Too: Getaway
Oscar Chances: No
Runtime: 1 Hour 25 Minutes
Tagline: He picked the wrong car. They picked the wrong guy.
Overall: Enjoyably Simple Action Thriller
Rating