Review of “Wild Card” (2015): A Mixed Bag of Action and Drama
“Wild Card,” directed by Simon West and released in 2015, is an action thriller that combines intense fight scenes with a dramatic narrative. Starring Jason Statham, the film is a remake of the 1986 movie “Heat,” based on the novel by William Goldman, who also penned the screenplay for this version.
Plot Overview
The film centers on Nick Wild (Jason Statham), a Las Vegas bodyguard with exceptional fighting skills and a crippling gambling addiction. After a friend is brutally assaulted by a mobster, Nick takes it upon himself to seek justice, which plunges him into the criminal underworld. His journey is complicated by his personal demons and the dangerous adversaries he faces.
Performance and Direction
Jason Statham delivers a strong performance as Nick, bringing his usual charisma and physicality to the role. The supporting cast, including Michael Angarano, Milo Ventimiglia, and Stanley Tucci, add depth to the narrative, though some characters are underdeveloped. Simon West’s direction captures the gritty atmosphere of Las Vegas and delivers on the action front, but the film’s pacing and tone are inconsistent, switching between introspective drama and high-octane action.
Cinematography and Production Design
The cinematography effectively showcases the glitz and grime of Las Vegas, creating a stark contrast between the city’s glamour and its seedy underbelly. The production design complements this aesthetic, with well-chosen locations and set pieces that enhance the film’s overall mood.
Themes and Symbolism
“Wild Card” explores themes of redemption, addiction, and personal struggle. Nick’s battle with his gambling addiction and his quest for justice highlight the character’s internal and external conflicts. The film also touches on themes of loyalty and revenge, though these are often overshadowed by the action sequences.
Critical Reception
The film received mixed reviews from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds an approval rating of 31%, indicating generally unfavorable reviews. Critics praised Statham’s performance and the film’s action scenes but criticized its uneven pacing and lack of narrative coherence. According to reviews from sources like Roger Ebert and IGN, the film’s blend of drama and action does not always mesh well, making it feel disjointed at times.
Streaming Availability
“Wild Card,” the film is available on several 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
“Wild Card” is a film that showcases Jason Statham’s strengths in action roles but struggles with balancing its dramatic elements. While it offers some thrilling moments and a gritty depiction of Las Vegas, the inconsistent tone and pacing prevent it from fully delivering on its potential. Fans of Statham and action thrillers might find it worth a watch, but it falls short of being a standout in the genre. For more detailed reviews and information, you can check out sources like Roger Ebert and IGN.
