I Am Wrath

I Am Wrath, a riveting action thriller from 2016, stars industry veterans John Travolta and Christopher Meloni, along with the talented Amanda Schull. Directed by Chuck Russell, known for his deft hand at action-filled dramas, this film packs thrilling excitement and riveting tension in equal measure, resulting in a highly engaging cinematic experience for action movie enthusiasts.

John Travolta, renowned for his versatile acting skills, plays the protagonist, Stanley Hill, a man confronted with unimaginable personal tragedy. Stanley is an average guy, living with his wife Vivian, portrayed by Rebecca De Mornay, in Columbus, Ohio. Stanley's ordinary life takes a tragic detour when a casual night out with Vivian ends in her brutal murder. The incident spirals Stanley into a vortex of pain and anger, transforming him from a loving husband to a man seeking revenge.

After learning about police corruption and their ineptitude in investigating his wife's murder, Stanley’s despair turns into insatiable rage, hence the title ‘I Am Wrath’. This scorned husband decides to take the law into his own hands, driven forward by the powerful desire to bring justice to his wife.

Christopher Meloni takes on the role of Dennis, a long-time friend and former co-worker of Stanley. He becomes an ally in Stanley’s quest for justice. Meloni showcases his acting prowess, providing a solid foil for Travolta's character and exhibiting his action chops in an impressive array of fight scenes.

Amanda Schull plays the role of Stanley’s daughter, Abbie Hill, who suffers the loss of her mother and witnesses her father’s dramatic transformation. Schull brings in a strikingly emotional performance, dramatizing the shifting dynamics between a father-daughter relationship caught in the storm of vengeance.

Director Chuck Russell ensures that I Am Wrath is not merely an action-packed ride but also a thought-provoking drama. The film’s narrative digs deeper into themes like the perversion of justice, political corruption, and the need for personal vengeance. It examines the lengths to which an ordinary man would go when the institutions meant to serve and protect him fail miserably.

The action sequences in I Am Wrath are tightly choreographed, displaying a blend of raw and visceral fight scenes. The scenes are crafted to perfection, driving the narrative forward and keeping audiences on the edge of their seats. Director Russell together with action coordinator, Don Lee, create a series of striking, intense and exciting action scenes, proving once again that when it comes to fast-paced, heart-pounding action, they are among the best in the business.

The cinematography deserves special mention as well. Veteran director of photography, Andrzej Sekuła—famous for his work in classics like Pulp Fiction and Reservoir Dogs—captures the gritty ambiance of the Columbus city streets, the anxiety-ridden domestic spaces, and the adrenaline-filled action scenes in a sophisticated blend of light and shadow. This approach enhances the viewing experience, making the viewers feel as though they are part of the unfolding drama.

The other strong suit of I Am Wrath is its music, composed by Haim Mazar. The menacing and suspense-filled scores accompany Stanley on his vengeful quest, adding another layer of intensity to the narrative.

In conclusion, I Am Wrath is a gripping action thriller that provides ample anxieties, thrills, and thought-provoking moments. Its exploration of a common man's battle against injustice, aided by top-notch performances from a talented ensemble, a visually striking ambiance, and well-crafted action sequences, all sewn together with a compelling narrative, make it a must-watch for action movie enthusiasts. It is a testament to John Travolta's dramatic range and action prowess while cementing Chuck Russell's status as one of the most consistent directors in the genre.