Cross: Rise of the Villains

Cross: Rise of the Villains is a 2019 action sci-fi movie co-written and directed by Patrick Durham. The film features an ensemble cast including Brian Austin Green, Lori Heuring, Patrick Durham, and Vinnie Jones. This film, a sequel to Cross (2011), continues the story of Callan and his team's fight against evil while introducing a new set of villains.

In Cross: Rise of the Villains, Brian Austin Green reprises his role as Callan, a hero bestowed with an ancient, powerful cross amulet by his forefathers. The amulet gives him extraordinary abilities, which he uses to defend Los Angeles from dark, supernatural villains. Since he has the power of the cross, Callan is the last line of society's defense in a city full of chaos, crime, and paranormal threats.

Alongside Callan, there's a team of skilled, loyal companions; each having unique abilities and distinctive characters, reintroducing some favorite characters from the original 'Cross' film and a few new ones. Together, they aim to keep Los Angeles safe from a new evil force that poses a threatening danger to the city's peace.

The new villain duo is introduced in the sequel – invincible and nefarious Gunnar (played by Lou Ferrigno) and Neva (played by Lori Heuring), stirring up chaos and plotting malevolent schemes. They set out to steal Callan's powerful amulet, hoping to augment their devious strengths. They're reckless, wicked, and unforgiving, creating a need for Callan and his team to step up their game.

The movie sets up brilliant chemistry between heroes versus villains. While Callan and his companions display loyalty, unity, and honor, the villains depict intense ambition in their passion for destruction and chaos. These contrasting elements create an exciting premise for an epic battle of good vs evil.

Brian Austin Green, known for this role in 'Beverly Hills, 90210', is exceptional as Callan, the lead character of the movie. His stoic presence added with the gritty characterization of the powerful defender, makes for a compelling watch. Green's performance, solidifying his position in the action genre, is complemented well by the rest of the cast. Lori Heuring as the devious Neva delivers a satisfying performance, with her sinister potrayal adding to the film's overall dark tone.

Patrick Durham, along with being in the director's chair and scripting the film, steps in front of the camera to play Riot, a member of Callan's team. His character adds a layer of complex loyalty and camaraderie to the mixture, making the audience invested in the team even more deeply. Vinnie Jones adds another superb act to his career by being the gritty and brutal detective in this supernatural setting. While his character's intention is morally correct, his brutal means of implementing justice add an edge to his role.

Cross: Rise of the Villains does an excellent job of keeping the audience engaged and at the edge of their seats. The storyline is fast-paced with plenty of gripping action scenes that are skillfully choreographed and shot. The special effects add a unique layer to the cinematic experience, escalating the action sequences and enhancing the film's atmosphere.

The film combines supernatural elements with city noir, infusing the grim crime setting of Los Angeles with eerie darkness, delivering a thrilling visual experience along with its high-octane action. Characters are well developed and their relationships woven intricately, allowing audiences to connect with them, the threats they face, and the stakes when danger lurks in the shadows.

In conclusion, Cross: Rise of the Villains combines the elements of action, superheroes, and supernatural genres. It refreshes the franchise with new characters and villains, offering fans a revitalized sequel with edgy action sequences, engaging storyline, and impressive performances. The film proves to captivate audiences of not just the action genre, but also viewers who enjoy a fantastical spin to their narratives. As a sequel, it successfully carries the franchise forward, leaving fans anticipating what's to come in the series.