I Am Vengeance

I Am Vengeance is a high-octane, gritty, and intense action film released in 2018 starring Stu Bennett, Fleur Keith, and Alan Calton. Directed and written by Ross Boyask, this film takes viewers on an explosive roller-coaster ride of revenge, crime, and justice. I Am Vengeance brings in a refreshing perspective from within a wave of modern British action movies, enhancing the experience with intriguing characters, an engaging plot, and a thrilling mixture of action scenes.

The film centers on the character of John Gold, portrayed by Stu Bennett, a former elite soldier turned mercenary. Gold is known for his masterful skills in combat, a reflection of his tumultuous and disciplined past in the military. Embodying the classic 'one-man army' archetype, Bennett provides a powerful performance as the stoic and nearly indomitable Gold, his aura exuding an intimidating and commanding presence.

The story takes off when Gold learns about the murder of his best friend and former army comrade, setting him on a determined and relentless path of vengeance. Gold’s journey takes him to a remote, rundown town largely controlled by a gang of brutal and merciless criminals. The suspense builds as he steps into this dangerous territory, marking the onset of a ruthless war against his friend's killers and their imposing criminal empire.

Drilling further into Gold's character, Bennett gives an in-depth glance into the psyche of a wounded warrior dealing with the ghosts of his past, all the while embarking on a mission of wrath and redemption. This exploration of the character's psyche adds layers to I Am Vengeance, taking it beyond a traditional action film, and delving into the realm of character-driven narrative.

Fleur Keith delivers a noteworthy performance as Sandra, the female lead of the movie. Her character reveals the darkness lurking beneath the sinewy framework of the town. She instills a sense of mystery, playing her part with craft and subtlety, and gradually unfolding the character's layered past and complex motives.

Alan Calton plays Hatcher, the vicious leading antagonist. He perfectly portrays a ruthless criminal leader, running his empire with an iron fist and taking brutal measures against any threat posed towards him. The tension between him and Gold provides the movie its principal conflict, compelling the viewer to sit tight and await the inevitable clash between the two.

Ross Boyask, the director and writer of I Am Vengeance, has put together a smart, tightly woven plot with aptly time-placed sequences of high-adrenaline action. The movie doesn't shy away from showcasing extreme violence to evoke the brutal reality of Gold's world. Mixed martial arts sequences, intense fistfights, and gunplay define the movie's action, all choreographed and filmed with an eye for detail.

The cinematography of I Am Vengeance paints a grimly beautiful picture that aligns well with the raw and harsh narrative of the film. The camera work is astute, presenting viewers with compelling visuals of the desolate town and the gritty action.

Subtle but effective, the film’s score and sound design capitalize on the action sequences' tempo, the tense build-ups, and the poignant, quiet moments.

In essence, I Am Vengeance is a gritty action thriller that delivers on various fronts. Its engaging narrative driven by strong performances, especially from Stu Bennett as John Gold, keeps the audience on their toes. With its stylistic action sequences, tightly woven plot and character-driven narrative, this film offers a thrilling viewing experience that action aficionados would undoubtedly enjoy.