Movie Review: Hard Kill (2020)

Hard Kill, directed by Matt Eskandari, is an action thriller starring Bruce Willis as Donovan Chalmers, a tech billionaire who hires a team of mercenaries to protect a powerful, potentially dangerous piece of technology. The mission takes a turn for the worse when a group of terrorists led by “The Pardoner” (Sergio Rizzuto) kidnaps Chalmers’ daughter, Eva (Lala Kent), as leverage. The film then follows Derek Miller (Jesse Metcalfe) and his team as they attempt to rescue her and prevent the terrorists from getting their hands on the technology.

Bruce Willis plays a supporting role as Chalmers, bringing his familiar presence but keeping a low profile throughout the film. His portrayal is subdued, and he remains in the background for much of the story, limiting his impact on the film. Jesse Metcalfe leads the action as Derek, playing a straightforward soldier determined to complete his mission, though the script offers limited character depth or development. Lala Kent’s role as the kidnapped daughter provides the emotional stakes but doesn’t add much dimension beyond that.

Hard Kill offers numerous action scenes, but they become somewhat repetitive and rely heavily on shootouts in a single warehouse location. The setting feels confined, and the action choreography, while adequate, lacks the polish and variety that could elevate the film. The film relies on standard action tropes without introducing fresh or unique elements, making the plot feel predictable and formulaic.

The character of “The Pardoner” falls into the archetypal villain category, with minimal backstory and a lack of menacing presence, limiting the tension and stakes in the story. Dialogue often feels clichéd, and the plot doesn’t offer much beyond the central premise of a rescue mission. This straightforward approach may appeal to viewers looking for a no-nonsense action film, but it doesn’t deliver the depth or complexity that some audiences may seek.

In summary, Hard Kill is a basic, by-the-numbers action thriller that fulfills its role as a straightforward, shoot-em-up movie but doesn’t bring anything new to the genre. It’s a serviceable choice for viewers interested in simple, fast-paced action, but the limited storyline and one-dimensional characters make it a largely forgettable experience. Fans of Bruce Willis may appreciate his presence, though his limited role means this isn’t a showcase of his iconic action-hero appeal.