Today’s quick review: The Accountant. Christian Wolff (Ben Affleck), an unassuming accountant with high-functioning autism, leads a double life as a money man for drug cartels, arms dealers, and other high-powered clients. His latest job puts him on the trail of $60 million embezzled from a tech company. But the investigation turns deadly when Wolff gets too close to the culprit, who hires a ruthless hitman (Jon Bernthal) to get rid of him.
The Accountant is an action movie about a quiet man keeping dangerous secrets. Ben Affleck stars as Christian Wolff, whose reserved exterior hides a keen mind, a mysterious past, and a knack for violence. The Accountant uncovers Wolff’s secrets bit by bit, weaving together his current job, flashbacks to his childhood, and an ongoing Treasury investigation. The result is an action movie with an intricate plot and an unusually developed protagonist.
The Accountant features an excellent blend of story and action. The main plot is a solidly constructed mystery, but the real appeal comes from what the audience learns about Wolff himself. His background includes a mixture of real-world autistic traits and a unique childhood worthy of any action hero. A side effect of this is that he is excellent in a fight, allowing the movie to also pack in a surprising amount of tightly choreographed fight scenes.
The Accountant is a solid pick for nearly any fan of the action genre. The movie’s engaging plot, unique protagonist, and sharp action make it well worth a look for anyone interested. The Accountant is not as flashy as some other entries into the genre, but its strong foundation will give it broad appeal. Those looking for a lighter romp may want to look elsewhere.
For an action movie about a helpful stranger that has a similar appeal, check out Jack Reacher. For more action in a similar vein, check out Shooter, John Wick, or Lucky Number Slevin. For a more grounded drama about a brilliant mathematician caught in the middle of a conspiracy, check out A Beautiful Mind.
7.3 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.0 for a satisfying blend of action and plot.