'The Union' Review: Mark Wahlberg and Halle Berry serve a classic action flick that you can't miss
Contains spoilers for 'The Union'
NEW JERSEY, UNITED STATES: 'The Union' might fit comfortably within Netflix's recent trend of high-octane, star-studded action films, but its unique allure shines through the dynamic pairing of Mark Wahlberg and Halle Berry.
'The Union' marks the first collaboration between these two seasoned action stars, elevating the genre with their combined charisma and screen presence. With its globe-trotting plot and explosive set pieces, 'The Union' is more than just popcorn entertainment it's a compelling entry that promises to captivate audiences globally and could even serve as an exciting TV series pilot.
'The Union' delivers a fresh take on the action genre
'The Union' kicks off with an exhilarating sequence featuring Roxanne (Halle Berry) on an international mission, only to shift gears to New Jersey, where Mike McKenna (Mark Wahlberg) is living a carefree life, working in construction and enjoying a comedic encounter with his former English teacher.
The plot thickens when Roxanne reappears in Mike's life, rekindling old flames before abruptly whisking him off to London. There, Mike discovers he’s been recruited into a covert organization called the Union, led by Roxanne and her formidable team, including tech expert Foreman (Jackie Earle Haley) and trainer Frank Pfeiffer (Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje).
Despite initial resistance, Mike undergoes intense training and dives into a high-stakes mission across Europe, facing off against complex adversaries such as Nick Faraday (Mike Colter) and Juliet Quinn (Jessica De Gouw). Directed by Julian Farino, the film blends thrilling action with a charismatic cast, delivering a breezy, well-paced adventure that outshines similar genre entries.
Halle Berry and Mark Wahlberg deliver an electrifying on-screen chemistry
'The Union' stands out in Netflix’s roster of high-octane action films, thanks to the dynamic pairing of Mark Wahlberg and Halle Berry. Their chemistry is electric, offering a refreshing blend of charisma and depth that elevates the film beyond standard genre fare.
Wahlberg’s effortless charm and physicality complement Berry’s fierce intelligence and presence, creating a compelling on-screen partnership. Their rapport is not just engaging but also deeply relatable, grounding the film’s high-stakes action with genuine emotional stakes.
This pairing also taps into the nostalgia of seeing two seasoned stars come together for the first time, delivering performances that feel both fresh and familiar. Their combined star power and undeniable chemistry make their scenes together the heart of the film, drawing viewers into the narrative and ensuring a memorable cinematic experience.
'The Union' is streaming on Netflix