'Trigger Warning' Review: Even Jessica Alba can't save this half-baked, bland Netflix flick
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: When it was first revealed in 2016 that Thunder Road Films had acquired the script for a feature film named 'Trigger Warning', which was billed as a female 'First Blood' with a dash of 'John Wick' for good measure, anticipation was sure to soar.
Now, there are plenty of action thrillers in Hollywood, with 'John Wick' comfortably leading the way, but has 'Trigger Warning' succeeded in capturing the same enchantment of enthusiasm and adrenaline?
Mouly Surya's directorial follows Parker (Jessica Alba), a competent Special Forces soldier who returns to her hometown following her father's tragic death.
The circumstances surrounding her father's death appear questionable to her, and the official explanation is an "accidental" cave-in. Parker, who has a military background, questions this explanation and sets out to discover the truth.
On the surface, the movie's storyline seems intriguing, but it fails to deliver its intended effect owing to its predictable narrative and very little character exploration.
Mouly Surya's direction delivers visual flair but falls short on thrills
Mouly Surya delivers a fascinating concept but falls short in execution. Surya has already proven her ability to create fascinating storylines, but she fails to provide the intensity and involvement demanded of an action thriller. Her direction adds a visual flare to the movie, with well-composed shots and a grungy look that complements the story's tone.
The small-town setting and darkly lit rooms evoke claustrophobia and anxiety, mirroring Parker's plunge into the town's murky underbelly.
However, the film's tempo is erratic whereas the action moments are quick and compelling, and the narrative flow is frequently slow derailing the film's pace.
Eric Brown's action choreography excels in 'Trigger Warning'
Eric Brown choreographed the film's action sequences, which are kept clean and logical, focusing on genuine effects and realistic combat. Brown's ability to direct inventive action scenes is shown by a memorable sequence in a supermarket where Parker uses chainsaw to combat robbers.
The choreography is practical and realistic, abandoning flashy stunts in favor of a more grounded approach that complements the film's grim atmosphere.
However, although the combat scenes are great, they lack the creativity seen in prior action films produced by the same crew that created the 'John Wick' franchise.
Jessica Alba captivates with her solid performances in 'Trigger Warning'
While the film's storyline and pace may be flawed, the performances offered by the ensemble provide a strong foundation, even if they are insufficient to totally redeem the movie.
Alba's portrayal of Parker exudes power and resolve, presenting a multifaceted lead who copes with personal trauma while navigating the perilous intrigue behind her father's murder.
Alba's portrayal of Parker's toughness and fighting prowess is good, but the screenplay does not always provide her with the depth and emotional range required to properly flesh out the character.
Anthony Michael Hall portrays Senator Ezekiel Swann, a strong and unscrupulous politician. Hall gives the role a terrifying appearance, conveying Swann's manipulative and ethically problematic nature. His portrayal heightens the suspense in the movie, despite the character's lack of growth and depth.
Mark Webber as the local sheriff and Parker's ex-boyfriend, gives a decent performance.
In essence, 'Trigger Warning' is a by-the-numbers thriller that accomplishes nothing to distinguish itself in the crowded action genre.
The narrative, although passable, is predictable and does not really have anything out of the box to offer. For those seeking a riveting and surprising thriller, 'Trigger Warning' may disappoint but it does provide moments of action with a strong female protagonist.
'Trigger Warning' trailer