Secret Service Agent Mike Banning is framed for the attempted assassination of the President and must evade his own agency and the FBI as he tries to uncover the real threat.
The “Has Fallen” series has been a wild ride, with its fair share of action-packed highs and plot-driven lows. The first installment, “Olympus Has Fallen,” set the bar sky-high, outshining its contemporaries with Antoine Fuqua’s masterful direction and pulse-pounding set pieces. It was a film that balanced the impossible with the relatable, making it a standout. The sequel, “London Has Fallen,” tried to recapture that magic but fell short, lacking the spark that made its predecessor so compelling.
So, when “Angel Has Fallen” arrived, I had mixed feelings. The trailer screamed generic action flick, a rehashing of “The Fugitive” and “Shooter” tropes. But boy, am I glad I took a chance on it. This movie is a triumphant return to form, surpassing even the original in many ways.
Gerard Butler reprises his role as Mike Banning, the stoic and deadly Secret Service agent. This time around, he’s framed for a presidential assassination attempt and must go on the run to clear his name. It’s a familiar concept, but the execution is where “Angel Has Fallen” shines. The action scenes are inventive, the thrills are genuine, and Butler has undeniable chemistry with Nick Nolte, who plays his estranged father.
Nolte is the heart of the film, bringing a depth of emotion that elevates the entire story. His character, Clay, is a grizzled Vietnam vet struggling with PTSD. When Mike seeks his help, old wounds are reopened, leading to some truly poignant moments. Nolte’s performance is raw and honest, adding a layer of complexity to the otherwise standard action plot.
Director Ric Roman Waugh strikes a perfect balance between high-octane action and heartfelt drama. He knows when to push the pedal to the metal and when to pull back and let the characters breathe. The result is a film that’s both exciting and emotionally resonant.
The “Has Fallen” series has had its ups and downs, but “Angel Has Fallen” is a satisfying conclusion. It’s a reminder that, even with familiar tropes, exceptional execution can make all the difference. If you’re a fan of the series or just action movies in general, “Angel Has Fallen” is a must-see.
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