The Gray Man Review

Here’s my The Gray Man review which stars Ryan Gosling, Chris Evans, Ana De Armas and more. The film is directed by the Russo Brothers.

This is an action-thriller which follows the story of Sierra Six who discovers a conspiracy that turns into a life and death situation for him. Chris Evans enters the fray as the deadly Lloyd Hansen, the sociopath sent to kill Sierra Six and take something he has that will compromise the CIA.

Let me start by saying how much of a lovable asshole Chris Evans‘ Lloyd Hansen is. Everytime he comes on screen there. He also does a lot of film and book references like “that’ll do pig, that’ll do”. I swear I would love this guy if only he’s not an asshole.

The story moves forward and back to different points in time of Six from his recruitment, to his downfall to his connection and establishing a bond with Julia Butters’ Claire. Before finally settling in the present time where Six goes on his way to save what I would call his little sister, Claire Fitzroy.

The Russo’s continues to get music to play an integral role for their movies. Whether its Silver Bird to other classics, you can be sure that there’s bound to be one or two of those here in this film.

Some elements from other Russo films that make it here including drone shots and big names for cities, like what he did in Captain America: Civil War. The camera work here is just excellent very reminiscent of “Winter Soldier” too with those tracking shots. I particularly loved that final moments when Hansen gives chase to Six and Claire as they try to get away via boat and Hansen jumps to the water to catch up.

Ana Del Armas isn’t a damsel in distress at all here in this film. Rather she’s a force to be reckoned with followed suit by Jessica Henwick’s character but she’s more for posturing and threats just like the traditional CIA agent trope.

Just ok performance for Billy Bob Thornton and Alfre Woodard. Although in this match up, Angelina Jolie’s former husband gets the better part of the deal as Six’s friend and mentor and handler.

Second best asshole here (which means his acting was effective) was Rege Jean Page who plays Denny Carmichael, the new CIA boss who wants all Gray Man operators killed or sent back to prison. He goes from suave and alluring man to suave and alluring CIA man with an agenda and has a bromance to boot with Chris Evans.

The film ends is a good note too so its open for a sequel and I actually want to see that happen. Maybe get another “Avengers: Endgame” star and make him or her the villain. I wouldn’t mind having Ryan Gosling go up against Scarlett Johannson though. A meaner, grittier Black Widow pastiche.

SCORE: 8/10

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