Today’s quick review: Point Blank. After a job gone bad, criminal Abe Guevara (Frank Grillo) ends up in the hospital and in police custody. To force his nurse Paul (Anthony Mackie) to sneak him out of the hospital, Abe’s brother Mateo (Christian Cooke) kidnaps Taryn (Teyonah Parris), Paul’s pregnant wife. Paul manages to free Abe but becomes a fugitive from the law, pursued by Lt. Regina Lewis (Marcia Gay Harden), a cop with a score to settle.
Point Blank is an action movie about a nurse forced to work with a criminal to save his kidnapped wife. Point Blank knows its limitations, works within them, and cleanly accomplishes what it sets out to do. The movie lacks the stunts, star power, intricate plot, or rich characterization seen in more ambitious action films. But what it does have is just enough of each to serve its purposes, making it a well-rounded and enjoyable popcorn watch.
Point Blank has a little bit of everything. The action is nothing out of the ordinary, but car chases and the odd fight are enough to keep things movie. The plot fits nicely into genre standards: substantive enough to support a twist or two, but not taxing to follow. Similarly, Abe and Paul are likable but not complex. Point Blank finishes it off with a few unexpected touches: clever cinematography, an energetic soundtrack, and a pinch of humor.
Point Blank is a movie that will appeal to action fans but lacks the subtance to draw in skeptical viewers. It never deviates far from the action formula, and neither its action nor its writing is enough to distinguish it from the crowd. But the movie does make for an honest, satisfying watch that doesn’t tip too far in any direction. Those looking for something light may want to try it. Those looking to be impressed should look elsewhere.
For a tense thriller with a similar premise, try Collateral. For an action comedy with a more dynamic pair of leads, try The Hitman’s Bodyguard. For a crime movie centered around a hospital, try Hotel Artemis or Three.
5.7 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 6.5 for simple, enjoyable action without the ambition or vision to impress.