Directed by Joe Carnahan

Starring Frank Grillo, Naomi Watts and Mel Gibson

Roy Pulver (Grillo) is not having a good day. Imagine waking each morning to an onslaught of assassins. At every corner, someone is trying to kill you. You’re not sure why, but you know your day is on repeat.  An entertaining mix of Groundhog Day and Street Fighter, Boss Level follows Roy on the last day of his life, a day he just can’t get enough of, a day that is doomed to repeat until he gets it right.

Whilst the film isn’t exactly treading new ground, I was pleasantly surprised by how entertaining it was. Grillo held his own as the husky and somewhat vascular hero (move over Hugh Jackman) and Gibson was donning maximum crank as big bad.

The plot was swift and engaging from the opening scene. But I feel that the film’s success rested in its knowing what it was and staying true to that. It didn’t try to be complicated, or overly artistic. Its plot was not bogged down by unnecessary complexity or confusing side stories. It stuck to its lane and was a stronger film for it.

The film did drop off in parts where the action slowed, the more serious scenes were a little tiresome and sadly this was where Watts had all her screen time, I would have liked to see more of her, it would have been nice if she’d been less of a damsel in distress.

Overall, there was entertaining action, some witty banter and a little hint of mystery to keep you interested and engaged.

Boss Level is showing in cinemas across Australia from February 25.

Moviedoc thanks Rialto Distribution, Ned & Co Marketing and Publicity and Annette Smith for the screener link to watch and review this film.

Review by Jemma for Moviedoc

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