Incoming

Incoming is a gripping and action-packed science fiction and thriller film released in 2018 that stars acclaimed actors such as Scott Adkins, Aaron McCusker, and Michelle Lehane. Directed by Eric Zaragoza, the film channels the intensity and suspense of a blockbuster action movie into a riveting space narrative, where the stakes are high, and the tension is always on the rise.

At the heart of the film, we have the International Space Station (ISS), not utilized as a beacon of multinational scientific cooperation as intended but weaponized into an international prison lorded over by relentless terrorists. This is where Scott Adkins' character, a hardened CIA agent, comes into play. His mission, should he choose to accept, is to infiltrate this prison-turned-space station and neutralize the threat.

Adkins is famed for his physically-demanding roles and doesn't disappoint in Incoming. He relishes the special agent role and brings a unique blend of athleticism and solid acting that has been the highlight of much of his movie portfolio. With his character in Incoming, he provides the audience with an action hero who is not only physically capable but also a savvy operative trained to outwit his enemies.

Alongside Adkins, you have Aaron McCusker. Known for his roles in series like "Shameless" and "Dexter," McCusker imbues his character with nuances that help flesh out the story further. His performance brings a substantial amount of intrigue and depth, emphasizing the not-so-black-and-white nature of the world of espionage and covert operations.

Complementing the powerhouse duo of Adkins and McCusker, Michelle Lehane delivers a solid performance as a part of the intriguing mix of characters. Her contribution ensures that we get a multi-faceted narrative rather than just another hackneyed plot.

Through the claustrophobic confines of the space station, Incoming fosters an environment of uncertainty and relentless suspense. As the plot ensues, tension rapidly escalates—the characters never quite sure about who to trust, always looking over their shoulders, with the void of space looming ominously outside. The fusion of an action-packed thriller with a science fiction setting is interesting and adds another layer of complexity to the narrative, pushing the boundaries of traditional genre norms.

Director Zaragoza does an excellent job in creating a world that's believable and compelling. The use of the ISS as a setting is rather inspired. It's a facility we seldom see utilized effectively in the movies and Zaragoza leverages its isolated and restrictive atmosphere to great effect. What’s more, her decision to place it in the middle of an international conflict is a nice touch, creating an incredibly suspenseful and fast-paced environment for the film.

The storytelling of Incoming is calculated and methodical, meticulously unraveling the characters and their motives while keeping audiences on the edge of their seats with frequent bursts of thrilling action. Despite its space setting, the film is grounded in its themes—loyalty, betrayal, and the blurred lines between right and wrong.

On the production front, the film is efficiently put together. It makes good use of its resources, with the visual effects creating a believable and immersive space setting. The staging of the action, much of it in confined spaces, is well-executed, and the film's pacing is deftly managed to keep the audience engaged throughout.

Incoming may not be a typical summer blockbuster, but it's a compelling action-thriller that makes the most of its unique setting and talented cast. It's a film that fans of the genre will definitely enjoy, full to the brim with suspense, intrigue, action, and just a conservative sprinkle of high-stakes political drama intertwined with touching human elements. In conclusion, if you like your action films with a bit of a twist and a unique setting, Incoming is certainly worth your time. Be prepared for a thrilling ride with Scott Adkins at the helm, navigating the treacherous territories of space and high-stakes international espionage.