The Old Guard (2020)

The Old Guard (2020)

Gina Prince-Bythewood brings her distinctive style to the Netflix superhero film "The Old Guard," much like Ryan Coogler did with "Black Panther." Known for her work on films like "Love and Basketball" and "The Secret Life of Bees,"Prince-Bythewood emphasizes the emotional depth of her characters, inviting the audience to connect with their introspective nature. The film’s characters, who have lived for centuries, frequently reflect on their pasts, with the camera lingering on their faces to capture the weight of their memories and losses. The narrative gives equal importance to these moments of quiet contemplation and the intense action sequences. For instance, a scene where Andy (Charlize Theron) savors a piece of baklava is treated with the same gravity as her combat scenes, underscoring the film's commitment to exploring both character and action.

Andy leads an elite group of seemingly immortal warriors, introduced in a gripping flash-forward where they are riddled with bullets, only to rise fully healed moments later. The group is soon joined by Nile (KiKi Layne), a Marine who discovers her immortality when a fatal injury miraculously heals. Her arrival is marked by a psychic connection with the team, a link that only fades once they all meet.

Charlize Theron, fresh off her role in "Mad Max: Fury Road," brings her fierce warrior energy to Andy, and her combat scenes with Nile, particularly on a plane, are thrilling. These scenes highlight the inclusivity of the film, with its diverse cast that never feels forced. The characters’ immortality is depicted through various races and cultures, adding depth to the narrative.

Prince-Bythewood’s knack for grand, melodramatic moments shines through in the relationship between Nicolo (Luca Marinelli) and Joe (Marwan Kenzari), two immortals who have been lovers for centuries. Their connection is poignantly highlighted in a scene where Joe passionately defends his love for Nicolo, offering a moment of LGBTQ representation that feels far more significant than similar attempts in other superhero films.

Greg Rucka, who adapted his graphic novel for the screen, hits all the familiar beats of the genre, from the tragic backstory of Andy to the climactic rescue mission. However, the strength of the film lies in its character development, making the stakes feel real and the characters relatable. The middle portion of the film, filled with torture and experimentation, forces the audience to confront the horrors of immortality.

Despite its focus on character-driven drama, "The Old Guard" doesn’t shy away from intense violence. The combat scenes are meticulously edited for maximum impact by Terilyn A. Shropshire, who seamlessly balances the intimate and the epic. The cinematography by Barry Ackroyd and Tami Reiker captures both the dark, moody interiors and the bright, expansive exteriors with equal finesse.

Without the burden of fan expectations tied to established franchises, "The Old Guard" stands out as a fresh and compelling entry in the superhero genre. It’s a film that could set a new standard for others to follow, and its post-credits teaser leaves you eagerly anticipating the sequel.