An off-duty SAS soldier, Tom Buckingham, must thwart a terror attack on a train running through the Channel Tunnel. As the action escalates on the train, events transpire in the corridors of power that may make the difference as to whether Buckingham and the civilian passengers make it out of the tunnel alive.
“SAS: Red Notice” 2021 Movie Review: High-Octane Action Meets Psychological Warfare
Introduction Released in 2021, “SAS: Red Notice” is an action-thriller based on the bestselling novel by Andy McNab. Directed by Magnus Martens, the film stars Sam Heughan, Ruby Rose, and Andy Serkis in a story that combines elements of military tactics and psychological analysis. Set against the backdrop of a terrorist threat on a train through the Channel Tunnel, “SAS: Red Notice” aims to deliver intense action sequences intertwined with a deep dive into the minds of its protagonists and antagonists.
Plot Overview Tom Buckingham (Sam Heughan), a special forces operator and seasoned soldier, is on a train from London to Paris with his girlfriend, Sophie (Hannah John-Kamen), to propose. However, their plans are abruptly interrupted when Grace Lewis (Ruby Rose) and her team of heavily armed war criminals hijack the train and hold the passengers hostage. Buckingham must utilize his combat skills and psychological training to thwart the terrorists’ plan and save the hostages, including the woman he loves.
Cast and Performances Sam Heughan leads the cast with a solid performance as Tom Buckingham, blending physical prowess with psychological insight. Ruby Rose portrays the cold and calculating Grace Lewis with intensity, though her character sometimes lacks depth beyond typical villain tropes. Andy Serkis adds a layer of menace as George Clements, offering a standout supporting role. The interactions between Heughan and Rose are charged with tension, providing a compelling cat-and-mouse dynamic throughout the film.
Direction and Cinematography Director Magnus Martens crafts “SAS: Red Notice” with a clear focus on action, maintaining a brisk pace that keeps the adrenaline high from start to finish. The cinematography is sharp and clear, capturing the claustrophobic intensity of the train setting and the expansive action sequences with equal proficiency. The film successfully creates a sense of urgency and danger, making the most of its confined setting to heighten the stakes.
Themes and Symbolism “SAS: Red Notice” delves into themes of duty, morality, and the nature of evil, examining what drives individuals to extreme actions. The film portrays its characters as complex figures with their own codes and motivations, exploring the psychological aspects of warfare and terrorism. The contrast between Buckingham’s moral convictions and Lewis’s nihilism offers a deeper philosophical underpinning to their physical confrontations.
Conclusion While “SAS: Red Notice” delivers thrilling action and intriguing psychological elements, it sometimes struggles with character development and narrative depth. However, for fans of the action-thriller genre looking for fast-paced entertainment and a touch of psychological intrigue, the film offers enough to keep viewers engaged.
Final Thoughts “SAS: Red Notice” is a commendable attempt to blend action with a more thoughtful look at its characters’ psychological motivations. It will likely appeal to fans of military thrillers and those who appreciate a more cerebral approach to the action genre.
