Jason Momoa’s latest film, The Wrecking Crew, serves as a striking homage to the glorious era of action flicks characterized by impressive physiques and thrilling explosions.
This movie features the dynamic duo of Jason Momoa and Dave Bautista in a vibrant buddy-cop narrative that promises an abundance of explosive moments and clever dialogue reminiscent of legendary action heroes from the 1980s and 1990s. It’s not every day that a streaming release comes along that truly fulfills such lofty expectations.
In The Wrecking Crew, Momoa and Bautista portray half-brothers named James and Johnny, who share a complicated familial history. Their father’s untimely demise in a hit-and-run accident compels Johnny to return to his family in Oahu, Hawaii, where he seeks to uncover the reasons behind the Yakuza’s unexpected visit to his home in Oklahoma. This return stirs tension between the brothers; while Johnny is convinced their father’s death involves the Yakuza, James remains skeptical about any foul play.
With Johnny working as a police officer and James training Navy SEALs, both characters are well-equipped to navigate the perilous situations they find themselves in as they delve into a conspiracy threatening their Hawaiian paradise. They must face off against a web of local gangsters, lethal Yakuza assassins, and elite security forces standing in their way, all while trying to unravel the mystery surrounding their father’s death and mending their fractious relationship. As the investigation unfolds, the chaos they unleash leaves a trail of destruction throughout Oahu.
A Nod to Classic Action Heroes
James and Johnny embody the quintessential action stars, calling to mind the thrilling escapades of films like Die Hard, Lethal Weapon, and Commando. Each scene propels the storyline forward while simultaneously raising more questions, setting the stage for a series of intense fights, spectacular explosions, exhilarating car chases, and captivating intrigue. As the brothers embark on their quest for answers, they grapple with their complex brotherly bond, the haunting memory of an emotionally distant father, and the looming danger threatening their loved ones.
Unlike the typically passive protagonists often found in contemporary cinema, these two are unapologetically masculine figures. Their approach to emotions is decidedly straightforward, and they confront their challenges head-on – often through physical confrontation, including clashes with each other.
The film showcases its leads in a manner that highlights their masculinity, with wardrobe choices that emphasize the muscular physiques of both actors, especially Momoa. Set against the backdrop of Hawaii, the characters frequently don casual attire like Hawaiian shirts and tank tops, making every opportunity count to showcase their robust appearances.
Yet, despite the film’s overt machismo, the female characters are far from mere background figures. They possess their own agency and play pivotal roles in advancing the plot through their resourcefulness. Morena Baccarin co-stars as Johnny’s love interest, and her portrayal shines brightly, particularly in the full context of her performance during a thrilling car chase scene featured in the trailer.
Action Tropes Amplified
The Wrecking Crew expertly alternates between well-executed hand-to-hand combat and gunfights, punctuated by exhilarating car chases that escalate the stakes with each sequence. One memorable fight takes place in a glass-walled corridor, reminiscent of the iconic “House of Blue Leaves” scene from Kill Bill Vol. 1. Another high-octane car chase cleverly incorporates every trope of the genre, amplifying them into a spectacular climax. Viewers are encouraged to stay alert, as numerous visual elements seamlessly connect each moment to the next.
Hawaii itself emerges as an important character in the film, beautifully captured through skilled cinematography that showcases its stunning landscapes. The narrative unfolds on Oahu, with breathtaking drone shots and dramatic beach vistas enhancing the action sequences, creating a vivid sense of place. A cleverly framed shot even positions a prominent mountain peak between the two leads, reminding audiences that Hawaii is a constant presence in their journey.
The cast also includes notable performances from Stephen Root of True Blood fame, Frankie Adams from The Expanse, and Jacob Batalon, best known for his role in the Tom Holland Spider-Man films. Young Maia Kealoha, who portrayed Lilo in Disney’s live-action remake of Lilo & Stitch, consistently captivates audiences with her scenes, hinting at a bright future in acting. It’s refreshing to see her character in a narrative focused on the theme of 'ohana,' or familial bonds, especially after the letdown of her previous major project.
If there is any critique to be made about The Wrecking Crew, it would be the slightly drawn-out investigative segment that appears in the middle of the film, which contrasts with the otherwise brisk pacing. However, this segment lasts roughly 15-20 minutes before the audience is swiftly returned to the film’s energetic pace.
A Celebration of Masculinity
The Wrecking Crew unabashedly embraces masculinity while also exploring emotional depth without reducing its protagonists to stereotypes of vulnerability. These men of action confront their struggles in undeniably male ways, eschewing modern interpretations of "toxic masculinity." Though they experience suffering and exhibit physical and emotional frailty, they ultimately embody honor, taking on the responsibilities of protecting their families.
This film successfully delivers what many viewers have been yearning for: an engaging narrative, relatable characters we can aspire to emulate, and a classic showdown of good versus evil. Once you buckle up for this wild cinematic ride, you’ll find it hard to pull away until the credits roll.
REVIEW SCORE
The Wrecking Crew is currently available for streaming on Amazon Prime.
