Synopsis:
Led by a warrior named Andy (Charlize Theron), a covert group of tight-knit mercenaries with a mysterious inability to die have fought to protect the mortal world for centuries.
If you woke up with the ability to instantly heal and somehow found out that you also can’t die, how would you use it? Perhaps you’d become a local hero, maybe you’d continue living the way you were, or maybe you’d dedicate an eternity fighting for what you believe is right. The Old Guard poses all these scenarios. Initially, it felt reminiscent of Extraction, which I wasn’t too excited about. Not that the two movies are related besides being Netflix originals, but everything Extraction lacked The Old Guard made up for. The story has layers, it makes sense, and the characters are relatable. It’s intriguing from the very beginning and I always love when films tie in a historical aspect to a storyline like this one. Not only does it dive into mortality but also morality. Filled with a great score that matches well with its action sequences, The Old Guard is packed full of excitement. Charlize Theron is officially a badass and definitely gave me Atomic Blonde vibes. The weapons are a cool mix of King Arthur meets John Wick, and I need that axe of hers to put on my wall next to Lucille. While predictable at times and with a somewhat familiar feeling story, I enjoyed this movie and can’t wait for a possible sequel. It would also work really well as a series but I can’t imagine Theron would be down for that. It’s rewatchability is high.
Plot & Pace
The story follows Andy, an immortal mercenary along with her team of immortals. The group has been fighting alongside each other for centuries trying to better society but Andy has reached her breaking point. After being set up by someone they trusted, the group has visions of a new immortal that needs to be rescued and could add value to the squad. However, it’s not as easy to get a new recruit to trust in a new way of life while yours is simultaneously under attack. The pacing of the movie is well done. Anytime there is a break in the action the story gets more interesting.
Characters & Chemistry
There were some really great characters in this movie. I don’t think we got the full scope of every important character but it seems to have left itself open for a sequel where more can be explored. Charlize Theron as Andy did a great job conveying how jaded she is from constantly putting her lives on the line for the greater good while also feeling like it’s all for naught. Her chemistry with Nile (Kiki Layne) is very entertaining. Nile is very reluctant about the entire situation they are in which leads to an interesting team dynamic. Merrick (Harry Melling) makes a great villain. I wanted nothing more than to see his downfall once he appeared on screen.
The Old Guard is now available on Netflix. Enjoy and stay safe.
Director: Gina Prince-Bythewood
Writer: Greg Rucka
Rated: R
Runtime: 2h 5m
Rating: 3.5 out of 5
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MP-IfMYhSX0]
Senior Critic. Observing the human race since 1988.
