In the Grey

This weekend, In the Grey, the newest film from Guy Ritchie, releases in theaters. In the Grey follows lawyer Rachel and her covert team of elite operatives as they use both legal and illegal means to recover $1 billion for their client, stolen by a ruthless despot. I have enjoyed several of Guy Ritchie's more recent movies, so I was very interested to see how this one would go.

Overall, I found this film average. There is entertainment to be found. The story is engaging as we watch this team deploy creative tactics to uncover hidden assets from their adversary. I appreciated the intricate plan set for their final escape. The film evokes an Ocean's 11 vibe in its meticulous setup and flawless execution. It was enjoyable seeing Jake Gyllenhaal and Henry Cavill share the screen. Their chemistry is solid, and they occasionally deliver sharp exchanges. Both portray calm and collected professionals, making them easy to root for. It's fascinating to see how seamlessly the team operates, never distracted or rattled. Their expertise ensures nothing derails their mission.

However, because everything in their plan moves so smoothly, it makes it a bit less exciting. Because there is never any concern that anything is going to go wrong, there doesn't feel like there are any stakes. You are never concerned that anyone is going to do. The characters themselves also have no emotional weight; none of them get any sort of development or any depth. They have one specific job, and that is it. There is a member of the team that does die, but there is no emotional weight to it as they were just kind of there. I also wish there could have been a bit more personality to the two main characters. There is a little bit of a fun relationship that is alluded to with Henry Cavil and Jake Gyllenhaal, but it is never explored. The characters just don't have much of a personality.

Overall, the movie boasts an intriguing premise and mirrors Ocean's 11 in its setup and execution. Still, it lacks genuine stakes or character complexity, leaving it one-dimensional and unsatisfying.

Score: 6.5/10 Grade: B- Recommendation: Wait to stream it