'Wasp Network' Review: The spy-thriller brings plenty of intrigue in a compelling narrative on the Cuban Five
Between 1990-98, the Cuban government ran a spy-group, whose agents infiltrated Cuban exile groups under the guise of anti-Castro defectors. This comes in as an alert right at the opening of 'Wasp Network'. From the opening sequence, it is clear the film isn't rushing through introductions. That the main characters as spies are established at the midway point. The fact that it is a true story just adds to the depth of the espionage and double-agent-based feature.
With a runtime of two hours and eight minutes, 'Wasp Network' weaves between the personal lives of spies and the intriguing operations that are carried out. There's attention to detail as the actors go all stealth mode and at the same time remain as human as possible. Call it compelling as that's exactly what Olivier Assayas' film is. Édgar Ramírez, reuniting with Assayas portrays René Gonzalez, the first to defect from Havana to Florida in 1990.
Not that the defection kept him content. The move comes at a personal cost as he is forced to leave his wife, Olga (Penélope Cruz), and daughter, Irma. His letters to her for the larger part goes unanswered. His new life in Miami comes with some assistance from the Cuban American National Foundation (CANF).
René's plan is outlined clearly as he lands a job as a flying instructor so he could get his wife and daughter to Miami eventually. He comes in the crosshairs of José Basulto (Leonardo Sbaraglia), a former CIA agent, running refugee aid organization, "Brothers To The Rescue." Up next is Juan Pablo Roque (Wagner Moura). His defection is a lot more stellar as he swims the Guantánamo Bay. Lean and fit with the looks of a suave and debonair movie star, the former Cuban Air Force major is a celebrity when he pops up on shore.
Much like René', Pablo isn't an anti-Castro radical. Add to the fact he serves as an FBI informant which instantly puts him in a plush level in the society. Cushy pay, a lovely and insanely sexy wife in Ana de Armas' Ana Margarita Martinez, and a book deal that promises the moolah to come in. Assayas' portrait of Cuba isn't pretty, the lives of the people there are definitely not comfortable. 'Wasp Network' is promising and expands details over the course of its runtime.
It would have helped if the main characters would have been the picture when the Wasp Network's accomplishments were highlighted. While there are critics who dub the film to have rather been a miniseries of sorts, it's hard to disagree as the tone and the plain sailing just gives off a vibe That the movie was better off as a series. That said, the director has ensured there are no compromises when it comes to explaining the tale of the Cuban Five.
Strong cast performances add to the quality of 'Wasp Network'. A strong woman persona in Cruz's Olga, a rather broody but headstrong defector in Ramirez, a play boyish and charming Moura along with Armas' Ana make it a reason to be watched. Let us get this part straight, 'Wasp Network' is not intended as a commercial popcorn flick. It isn't. But what it is, is a solid narration of what was one of the most audacious spy networks back in the '90s.
'Wasp Network' premieres June 19 on Netflix.