A film that aspires to those heights must have everything operating flawlessly, beginning with a starring actor who can carry a film, as well as fascinating combat choreography, great cinematography techniques, and pace that keeps the suspense high. Matthew Reilly, making his directorial debut with Interceptor, has taken on a big assignment, and the outcome is funny, silly, and quirky.
Captain JJ Collins, played by Elsa Pataky, has lately been sent to one of the US Army's two interceptor bases. These interceptor bases are the last line of defence if russia or any other adversary state launches a nuclear attack over the Pacific Ocean. Collins is demoted to her prior position on SBX-1 after enduring sexual harassment and the full brunt of patriarchal reaction for sticking up for herself. SBX-1 launches a synchronised strike on the first interceptor base and one of Russia's missile bases as soon as she arrives. JJ, who was sabotaged by the army, is now the only person who can save the US and possibly the entire globe.
The film is fine in terms of technical aspects. The action is better than most by hollywood standards, but it's severely edited to hide either the terrible choreography or a foolish attempt to profit on the fast-paced, frenzied actioner it aspires to be. Pataky, on the other hand, sells the action scenes with a zeal that cannot be overlooked. She is brave and confident, but most importantly, she is steadfast. Pataky isn't overly invested in his "action star" character. She is vulnerable, and she can go into the more personal aspects of her character without losing the strong energy she exudes, which the picture desperately wants to exploit. Luke Bracey, who plays Alexander, the brilliant tactician hellbent on bringing America to its knees, is on the other side of the screen, hamming it up but never crossing the line into farce. Everyone else, on the other hand, does the bare minimum in their roles.
Overall, Interceptor is a joke. The setting seems unlikely, but it's a good set-up for an epic battle between one woman and a team of extremely skilled fighters. When certain villains appear who are extreme examples of clichés, it is undeniably amusing. The villain's rambling lectures are tedious to watch, but Bracey enjoys the way he pretends to be superior. His act is the icing on the cake for this farcical tale. Interceptor ticks all the boxes in terms of crafting an action film that will hold the audience's interest, make them cheer for the hero, and make them laugh a few times before they forget about it.
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