Review of “Survivor” (2015): An Unremarkable Espionage Thriller
“Survivor,” directed by James McTeigue and released in 2015, is an action thriller starring Milla Jovovich and Pierce Brosnan. The film centers on Kate Abbott (Jovovich), a Foreign Service Officer in London who becomes the target of a deadly assassin named Nash (Brosnan) after being framed for a terrorist bombing.
Plot Overview
Kate Abbott’s life takes a dramatic turn when she narrowly escapes a terrorist attack and becomes a fugitive, racing against time to clear her name and prevent another attack. The plot hinges on Kate’s quest to outsmart the relentless assassin and uncover the real perpetrators behind the conspiracy.
Performance and Direction
Milla Jovovich delivers a solid performance, portraying Kate as a resourceful and determined character rather than a typical action heroine. Pierce Brosnan, playing against type, is effectively menacing as the assassin Nash. Despite the strong performances, director James McTeigue struggles to maintain a consistent level of suspense throughout the film. The action sequences are competent, but the film’s pacing and narrative coherence leave much to be desired.
Cinematography and Production Design
The film’s visuals capture the essence of London and its various locales, contributing to the overall atmosphere. The production design, while adequate, doesn’t stand out, often relying on familiar tropes of the espionage genre.
Themes and Symbolism
“Survivor” touches on themes of terrorism, loyalty, and survival, set against a post-9/11 backdrop. The film attempts to explore the moral ambiguities faced by those in the intelligence community, but these themes are often overshadowed by the action-oriented plot.
Critical Reception
The film received generally negative reviews, holding an approval rating of 8% on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics praised the performances of Jovovich and Brosnan but criticized the film for its lack of originality and predictability. Roger Ebert’s review noted that while the film had potential, it failed to fully deliver a compelling or engaging experience.
Streaming Availability
“Survivor,” the film is available on various streaming platforms in the United States:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rent or purchase.
- Apple iTunes: Available for rent or purchase.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Available for rent or purchase.
- Vudu: Available for rent or purchase.
Conclusion
“Survivor” is a film with a promising premise and strong lead performances but ultimately falls short due to its predictable plot and uneven execution. Fans of Milla Jovovich and Pierce Brosnan might find it worth a watch, but it is unlikely to leave a lasting impression in the crowded field of espionage thrillers. For more detailed reviews and streaming options, you can check platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies & TV, and Vudu.
