'One Fast Move' Review: Even KJ Apa's strong performance can't save this film's fatal flaw
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: 'One Fast Move' is a highly anticipated American action film that is released today. Written and directed by Kelly Blatz, the film features a dynamic cast including KJ Apa, Eric Dane, Maia Reficco, Edward James Olmos, and Austin North.
The story promises an adrenaline-pumping experience as it follows the intense journey of Wes Neal, portrayed by KJ Apa, and his encounters with a high-stakes world. Eric Dane stars as Dean Miller, while Maia Reficco, Edward James Olmos, and Austin North bring additional layers to the narrative.
Filming began in Atlanta in June 2022, announcing the cast additions including Reficco, Olmos, and North in August. With its thrilling premise and star-studded ensemble, let's see if 'One Fast Move' is set to captivate audiences and deliver an exhilarating cinematic experience.
'One Fast Move' struggles with cliched storytelling and lacks emotional depth
'One Fast Move' on Prime Video, attempts to dive into the world of human connections but falls short of achieving its emotional goals. Directed and written by Kelly Blatz, the film struggles with cliched storytelling and shallow character development.
The plot follows Wes Neal (KJ Apa), a young veteran who, after a stint in military prison and losing his benefits, seeks a fresh start. Following the death of his mother, he finds his estranged biological father, Dean (Eric Dane), who has left his past behind for a career in road course racing.
Despite promising an exploration of road course racing and the grueling nature of the sport, the film opts for broad strokes and oversimplified subplots. Dean, played by Dane, works for Abel (Edward James Olmos) in a failing motorcycle shop.
The film’s attempts to delve into these relationships are undermined by its cliched and superficial approach, leaving much to be desired in terms of originality and depth.
KJ Apa’s performance in 'One Fast Move' is strong but overshadowed by the film’s superficial script
'One Fast Move' fails to deliver a compelling viewing experience, primarily due to its shallow character development and predictable narrative. The film centers on Wes Neal (KJ Apa), a one-dimensional veteran whose journey lacks emotional depth.
Maia Reficco, as Wes’s love interest, plays a clichéd role involving trust issues with an ex-con, while Edward James Olmos’s portrayal of a father figure feels unearned and superficial. The script offers only superficial glimpses into the characters' lives, racing through plot points with little genuine insight.
Dean (Eric Dane) eventually reveals a poignant moment, but it lacks impact because the audience already anticipates it. Although Apa delivers a solid performance with a stoic demeanor, the film’s failure to create an emotional connection undermines its intended redemption arc.
'One Fast Move' is available for streaming on Prime Video