Based on a comic book of the same name, The Old Guard tells the story of five immortals led by Andy (Charlize Theron) who want to end every possible wrath on the world through their power to never die. Although their accomplishments aren’t quite mentioned except at the end, the power isn’t as badass as it sounds, or atleast isn’t portrayed justifiably.
Even entertainment wise, it doesn’t take pace until the second half. With most films, entertainment might not be a highlight point but this is not cinematic in its element. Considering it is aimed towards the masses, the catch doesn’t quite happen till the second half.
Their army of five include Nicky (Luca Marinelli) Joe (Marwan Kenzari), Booker (Matthias) and newly added Marine corp Nile (Kiki Layne) apart from Andy, who for most part reminisce their battle struggles to Nile or struggle to convince her of the possibility of something good coming out of this glitch.
Other than that, the film has pumped up action sequences (mostly in the climax) that mostly have Theron and Layne leading them.
The key takeaway for me would be how potently human greed is portrayed here, through Merrick (Harry Melling) who wants the army’s DNA in order to benefit himself as an innovator and out do his competitors in the market.
Some subplots that were initially introduced were later left midway. Narratives like saving Syrian lives, Nile being in the Marine Corps ceased to exist quite haphazardly, almost felt like why would the makers take the trouble to even run them in the first place.
Technically speaking, Andy’s human anatomy had no effect given she was alive as back as in the 10th century which seemed like a writing flaw.
Another major reason why this failed to leave an impact was the absence of a strong challenge. Merrick as the villian wasn’t as villianish as he was childish.
Quynh’s ordeal was one of my favorite scenes from the film, and I eagerly waited for a follow up on it, which will thankfully be served in the second part, sure indications to which were made in the climax. Overall, the film is a good watch mostly for the second half but has quite the potential to fix up in its sequel.
The F Word 