[usr 1.5]
When ex-soldier turned mercenary, John Gold, learns of the murder of his best friend, he sets off on a mission to find out what happened. What he discovers is a sinister conspiracy and he sets about taking down those responsible, one by one.
Looking for a low-budget action film with kicking and non-stop punching? Ex-soldier-turned-mercenary finds out his best mate has been done in by some bad lads, time for Vengeance! John Gold is played by WWE wrestler Stu Bennett and most of the stunts are reminiscent of the deplorable Vincent McMahon run program. Gold is uncovering a conspiracy using classic interrogation techniques like, “who are they, where are they?” (Whilst grabbing a wrist or arm, almost breaking it). Various other eye rolling, cringe-inducing tropes are on full display. The screenplay tries very hard to make supporting characters humorous but fails.
The editing and directing are sloppy and unfocused. I felt a bit of 1980s inspiration that’s been all the rage lately, but it’s not well done or in the very least fun. Particularly one scene that was straight out of “Commando” with Gold getting ready and the camera smash cutting from his gloves to gun and other battle-ready gear. If there had been more of that essence, maybe the movie might have been better.
The film goes for gory and bloody deaths but instead, they look hilariously bad. In one scene, Gold strangles an enemy to death, with the victim spewing out blood like they had been stabbed. I love British cinema and television, but “I am Vengeance” is a low brow, frankly boring experience. After the ending, I wanted revenge on the cast and crew for ruining my weekend.
Available on Blu-ray™ (plus Digital) and DVD October 23rd
