“Got any duct tape?” —Will Sawyer
Today’s quick review: Skyscraper. Will Sawyer (Dwayne Johnson), a security consultant who lost a leg in the line of duty, has been tasked with verifying the safety of the Pearl, a high-tech Hong Kong skyscraper and the world’s tallest building. But when intruders set fire to the Pearl to get at Zhao Long Ji (Chin Han), the building’s owner, Sawyer must break into the building and navigate the flames to save his family, who are still trapped inside.
Skyscraper is an action thriller with a straightforward premise. Will Sawyer must get to the Pearl, figure out a way in, locate his family, and get them to safety before either the fire or the armed intruders can catch up with them. Skyscraper features decent action, a likable lead, and a well-balanced tone. However, its one-dimensional plot and lack of flair keep it from being anything more than a popcorn watch.
Skyscraper delivers exactly what it promises. The stunts make good use of the Pearl, focusing more on climbing and falling rather than physical combat. The plot includes everything it needs to and doesn’t overstay its welcome, but it offers little in the way of depth or complexity. The tone manages a good balance of levity and tension; the movie keeps the stakes high without going overboard on violence, and it offsets the drama with snippets of humor.
Watch Skyscraper when you’re in the mood for light action with a few good thrills. Those looking for exceptional action, an unpredictable plot, or sparkling dialogue should look elsewhere. But those looking for a popcorn flick with a different style of action should give it a try. For a more violent take on a similar premise, check out Die Hard. For a spy action comedy with similar stunts, check out Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol.
6.2 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 6.5 to 7.0 for competent action with few frills.