Alarum (2025) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
A Spy Thriller That Falls Short of Its Potential
“Alarum,” directed by Michael Polish and written by Alexander Vesha, arrives as a mixed bag of espionage intrigue and action-packed sequences. Starring Scott Eastwood, Willa Fitzgerald, Sylvester Stallone, and Mike Colter, this wintry spy thriller promises much but delivers unevenly, leaving audiences with lingering questions and a sense of missed opportunity.
Plot Overview
The film follows Joe (Scott Eastwood) and Lara (Willa Fitzgerald), two former spies from competing agencies who have left their high-stakes careers to marry and start anew. Their idyllic winter retreat is disrupted when a plane crash near their cabin brings a coveted hard drive—known as the “flight pill”—into their midst. This hard drive, sought after by a consortium of international intelligence agencies, draws chaos to their doorstep.
Among the agents sent to retrieve the drive is Chester (Sylvester Stallone), dispatched by the cynical CIA-like Director Burbridge (D.W. Moffett). The couple must navigate not only their precarious situation but also the suspicion that they may have joined a rogue spy network, Alarum.
Performances
The cast delivers performances ranging from commendable to disappointing:
- Scott Eastwood: Known for his roles in “The Outpost” and “Wrath of Man,” Eastwood brings intensity to Joe’s character but fails to showcase the charisma necessary to carry the film.
- Willa Fitzgerald: A standout in the underrated “Strange Darling,” Fitzgerald shines with her physical prowess and emotional range. However, the script doesn’t give her enough material to truly showcase her talents.
- Sylvester Stallone: Stallone’s grizzled operative brings gravitas to the film, although his character suffers from clichéd dialogue and limited depth.
- Mike Colter: Known for “Luke Cage” and “Plane,” Colter’s villainous Orlin feels over-the-top, hindered by inconsistent accents and exaggerated mannerisms.
D.W. Moffett convincingly portrays the manipulative intelligence director, adding a layer of cynicism that bolsters the narrative.
Direction and Cinematography
Michael Polish’s direction occasionally hints at his indie roots, with atmospheric shots of the snow-covered landscape and introspective moments. However, these artistic flourishes are overshadowed by formulaic plotting and lackluster action sequences. The movie’s visual style fails to leave a lasting impression, and the action—though technically competent—lacks innovation.
Script and Storytelling
Alexander Vesha’s script struggles to balance character development with the demands of a spy thriller. The narrative’s fractured structure separates Joe and Lara early on, sacrificing potential tension and chemistry. Themes of trust and betrayal are touched upon but remain underexplored, leaving the story feeling hollow.
Action and Special Effects
“Alarum” delivers sporadic bursts of action, including gunfights featuring automatic shotguns and drone explosions. While some sequences are thrilling, others veer into the realm of absurdity. The CGI, particularly in drone scenes, lacks polish and feels dated.
Where to Watch “Alarum” Online
“Alarum” is available for streaming and rental on the following platforms:
- Spectrum
- Amazon Prime Video
- Plex
For the latest streaming availability, visit JustWatch.
Final Verdict
“Alarum” is a serviceable but forgettable entry in the spy thriller genre. While Willa Fitzgerald’s performance and a few artistic touches stand out, the film’s reliance on clichés and lack of narrative cohesion undermine its potential. Fans of mid-budget action movies might find some enjoyment, but “Alarum” ultimately feels like a filler for streaming queues rather than a memorable cinematic experience.
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