I Am Vengeance: Retaliation

I Am Vengeance: Retaliation is a high-octane action thriller released in 2020. This gripping pursuit of vengeance keeps the audience on the edge of their seats from start to finish with its intense action sequences, captivating plot turns, and an ensemble cast that perfectly portrays their roles.

At the heart of the film is protagonist John Gold, played by Stu Bennett. John is an ex-soldier who is now turned bounty hunter. He is presented as a hard-as-nails anti-hero, who despite his tough exterior, still has a sense of morality, duty, and honor. Bennett excels in his role, embodying the tough demeanour and physicality needed for a hardened soldier-like Gold. His performance is unflinching, carrying a lot of the film's emotional and physical weight.

Vinnie Jones portrays the film's menacing antagonist, Sean Teague. Jones is no stranger to playing the tough-guy antagonist and his portrayal of Teague just reinforces this. He injects a tangible sense of threat and ruthlessness to his character that elevates every scene he is in. Teague is an ex-squad mate of Gold, who betrayed his team on their final mission in Eastern Europe. This intricate history creates a complex dynamic between the characters and lends to the suspense of the narrative.

Jacob Anderton plays Frost, another rogue member of Gold's former team whose uncertainty and dual loyalties add layers of intrigue to the plot. Anderton, as Frost, holds his own among the cast and provides important emotional counterpoints to the movie's constant action.

In I Am Vengeance: Retaliation, Gold is made an offer he cannot refuse by the military when he learns Teague is on the loose. His mission is to apprehend Teague and deliver him to the military for his crimes. He is given the opportunity to reassemble what is left of his old squad for this difficult mission. But with the history between Teague and Gold, it's clear from the start this mission is going to involve more than just delivering a rogue soldier. The added layer of personal vendetta brings in an element of suspense and unpredictability that keeps the audience captivated throughout the movie.

One of the most standout aspects of the film is its action sequences. Helmed by director Ross Boyask, the fight scenes are well-choreographed and expertly executed, creating a great sense of anticipation and excitement. From car chases to hand-to-hand combat, each action sequence feels gritty, raw, and visceral. It’s an adrenaline-fueled ride that doesn’t hold back, ensuring that audiences are thrilled from beginning to end. The director's experience in the genre shines through as he knows exactly how to elevate these sequences and bring out the best in his cast.

A crucial aspect that gives depth to I Am Vengeance: Retaliation is the underlying theme of loyalty and betrayal. The past actions of the characters come into play and tests allegiances, leading to confrontations that are both physical and emotional. This conceptual departure from typical no-brainer action films makes the characters and their motivations fascinating to explore.

The visuals are also impactful, with the grimy and cold setting representing the harsh realities and harsher characters within the movie. It provides a perfect backdrop for the film's hard-hitting action and morally ambiguous characters. The film's score complements the visuals well, adding to the tension and stakes of the narrative.

Overall, I Am Vengeance: Retaliation is a thrilling action movie that blends well-executed fight scenes with a captivating plot and excellent performances. It’s a must-see for fans of action thrillers who are looking for a movie that does not shy away from complex character dynamics and high-stakes action sequences. This movie is a testament to the undeniable fact that sometimes, revenge is a dish best served cold and hard. And sometimes, it's the only justice a corruption-riddled world would allow.