Latest news with #ShadowForce
Yahoo
01-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
‘Shadow Force' Review: Two Spies Get Dragged From the Cold in Middling Action Opus
When a now-defunct celebrity couple attempted to make like Nick and Nora Charles meets 'Mission: Impossible' in 'Mr. & Mrs. Smith' two decades ago, the high-concept, high-budget results were a mixed bag — which didn't stop them from being imitated ever since. The latest duo to step into similar matching marital bulletproof vests is Kerry Washington and Omar Sy, playing globetrotting 'elite special operators' now hiding from their former colleagues in 'Shadow Force.' It takes a certain esprit to pull off this kind of bombastic yet larky star vehicle. Joe Carnahan's film provides passable diversion for a couple hours, but the fun to be had is limited by uninspired action staging, less-than-sparkling dialogue and a maudlin streak of the 'It's about family!!' type. Lionsgate's theatrical release looks likelier to find its primary audience once it reaches home formats. More from Variety New Movies Out Now in Theaters: What to See This Week 'Desperate Housewives' Reboot From Kerry Washington, Natalie Chaidez in Development at Onyx Collective 'Extraction' TV Series Starring Omar Sy Ordered at Netflix From Glen Mazzara With Russo Brothers Producing Kyrah (Washington) and Isaac (Sy) are a couple who met on the job. They were both part of the titular top-secret assassin unit assembled by then-CIA chief Jack Cinder (Mark Strong) to take out bad guys around the world. But falling in love was against the rules, going AWOL even more so. Some time later, they've gone underground, trying to keep themselves and 5-year-old son Ky (Jahleel Kamara) safe from the vengeance of their ex-boss, who is now General Secretary for G7. Cinder's international career ascent has only made him more anxious to snuff his runaway agents, who 'know too many things.' Plus there's his lingering pique over being dumped for Isaac by Kyrah, with whom he once had a different sort of 'thing.' She has actually spent the last few years away from her husband and child, trying to kill off remaining Shadow Force recruits before they can do the same to her loved ones. However, when Isaac is forced to demonstrate his violent skillset during a bank robbery in which father and son find themselves caught, the resulting heroic surveillance camera footage blows everyone's cover. Dad and son scram to a hiding place in the Colombian jungle, soon joined by an irate mom. (It is typical of the script's weak logic that she blames Isaac for attracting attention, ignoring the minor detail that he was forced to save their child from armed goons.) Once these parents have yelled at and pummeled each other a bit, the family reunion goes on the run, soon crossing paths with old CIA allies: another couple, known as Auntie (Da'Vine Joy Randolph) and Unc (Method Man). Less luckily, they're also tracked down by members of the Force, who drag all the good guys to Cinder's man-made-island lair. The shootout that takes place there is decent enough. Still, 'Shadow Force' aspires to 'John Wick'-ish levels of hyperbolic action without having the elevated fight choreography or visual panache to pull that off. Shot almost entirely in Colombia, the film's locations and P. Erik Carlson's production design are plusses that Juan Miguel Azpiroz's widescreen cinematography doesn't fully exploit, providing neither grittiness nor high style to material that could use one or the other. A chase on mountain roads, then another between speed boats, ought to provide more visceral thrills than is managed here. In character terms, too, the movie keeps falling short. The five reassembled 'Force' killers (Yoson An, Sala Baker, Marvin Jones III, Natalia Reyes, Jenel Stevens-Thompson) are each given a distinguishing look, but practically nothing to say or do. By default, more interest is stirred by Cinder's ill-treated bodyguards-slash-assistants (Marshall Cook, Ed Quinn), who at least hint at some droll camaraderie. It's gratifying when late in the game, they turn out to have more going on than we'd thought. But Strong, who's played many villains, finds so little of interest in this one that he might as well have 'Generic Baddie' (or perhaps 'If I can't have you no one will') tattooed across his forehead. While Sy and Washington are certainly accomplished, personable and attractive performers, these ostensibly showy roles don't do a lot for them, either. He (in a part originally intended for producer Sterling K. Brown) at least imbues his with some humor and warmth. She waxes too earnest for the fairly preposterous premise to bear, hard-selling Kyrah's tough side one minute, belaboring maternal devotion the next; her prickliness around Isaac makes whatever mutual chemistry brought them together hard to detect. It might've been entertaining to let her character's alpha air be the secret sauce in their marriage, but neither script nor star are willing to make that leap. The dynamic between Randolph and Method Man actually does go there, after a fashion — yet again, Leon Chills and Carnahan's screenplay never quite gives these actors the opportunity to shine as we keep expecting them to. A bullet-riddled scenario this simplistic and improbable can't afford to be as sentimental as 'Shadow Force' often gets. There's too much screentime handed over to child thespian Kamara being precociously adorable — which he is. But charm is dampened by the rote calculation of having a tyke curse for laughs, or hammily sing along to old R&B hits. A running gag here is that wee Ky is a superfan for 80s slow-jam king Lionel Ritchie. Like so much else here, that plays out as an obvious gimmick deployed minus the wit or surprise that might've made it fly. If only Sy and Washington had been given some latterday equivalent to the banter William Powell and Myrna Loy got in those 'Thin Man' movies. Instead, the best the filmmakers can manage is saddling them with the same exact fadeout that ended 'After the Thin Man' on a note of shameless schmaltz almost 90 years ago. Best of Variety The Best Albums of the Decade
Geek Vibes Nation
30-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Geek Vibes Nation
Lionsgate To Release The Kerry Washington & Omar Sy Action Film 'Shadow Force' On Blu-Ray This July
Lionsgate Home Entertainment has announced that they will be releasing the action film Shadow Force on Blu-Ray and DVD on July 8, 2025. The film is currently available on Digital platforms. From director Joe Carnahan (Narc, The A-Team), the film stars Kerry Washington, Omar Sy, Mark Strong, Academy Award Winner Da'Vine Joy Randolph, and Cliff 'Method Man' Smith. The Blu-Ray comes with a Dolby Atmos audio track and exclusive special features. Get more details below! Synopsis: In SHADOW FORCE, Kyrah (Kerry Washington) and Issac (Omar Sy) were once leaders of a multinational special forces group called Shadow Force. They broke the rules by falling in love, and in order to protect their son, they go underground. With a large bounty on their heads, and the vengeful Shadow Force hot on their trail, one family's fight becomes all-out war. SPECIAL FEATURES Shadow Force: Declassified — Audio Commentary with Writer-Director Joe Carnahan and Editor Kevin Hale Making Shadow Force — Ain't Nothing to F*** With International Waters: The Locations Behind Shadow Force Isla Gunfight: Final Battle Breakdown Theatrical Trailer Before we let you go, we have officially launched our merch store! Check out all of our amazing apparel when you click here and type in GVN15 at checkout for a 15% discount! Make sure to check out our podcasts each week including Geek Vibes Live, Top 10 with Tia, Wrestling Geeks Alliance and more! For major deals and money off on Amazon, make sure to use our affiliate link!
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Kerry Washington on ‘Shadow Force': Maternal instincts, career climbing, and the joy of creating
In a compelling interview with John Kelly, Kerry Washington opened up about her dynamic new action film Shadow Force On How Motherhood Shaped Her Character in Kerry Washington is a mother who plays no games in her new action film 'Shadow Force'! In a recent conversation with TheGrio's John Kelly where he praised Washington as a 'strong, powerful, wise, multi-talented mama,' Kelly asked how motherhood prepared her for the fierce role she plays in Shadow Force. Washington drew a striking parallel between real life and the action-packed plot, saying: In some ways, every parent is on the journey that Omar and I are on in this film because we're all trying to, like, be fierce and fearless and create healthy boundaries and protect our kids from what's dangerous out there, but also be loving and protect their joy and make sure that they're okay. It just happens that, you, know, Omar and I are playing highly trained assassins. She reflected on the instinctual nature of parental protection, which she could now relate to deeply since becoming a mom. 'It was really fun for me to ask myself, if I was a highly trained assassin… what would protecting my family look like?' On the Uniqueness of the Script Kelly noted that the film blends action, drama, and heart, calling it a 'total package.' Washington eagerly agreed but insisted on adding comedy to the mix, crediting her co-stars Divine Joy, Method Man, and Jahleel Kamara for their comedic brilliance. 'They bring necessary levity,' she said. 'I laughed, I cried two times,' is the kind of reaction that excites her. She expressed how rare it is to find material that allows her to flex physical, emotional, and intellectual muscles: 'I get to be a strong character intellectually, emotionally, and physically is really, really fun.' On Her Career Journey Kelly called Washington's career 'a magical run,' highlighting her success across TV, film, and behind the camera. Washington acknowledged her gratitude: 'I know every day that I wake up, I'm living a life that's filled with answered prayers.' She cited inspiration from Cicely Tyson, who viewed her career as an ongoing climb rather than a destination. Washington aims to keep reaching higher while staying grateful. On What's Next When Kelly remarked that it feels like she's just getting started, Washington agreed. As a producer, she finds deeper purpose: 'I'm not just doing work for myself that is exciting, but I'm creating opportunities for hundreds of other people… That for me is exponentially fulfilling.'More must-reads: 'I didn't know this was news'—Ryan Clark responds to critics' attempts to call him out because of his biracial daughter What to know about Kid Cudi, the rapper testifying at the Sean 'Diddy' Combs trial Tina Knowles wants you to know: Rumi is living her best life on the 'Cowboy Carter' tour
Time of India
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Shadow Force Movie Review: A bland action thriller that fizzles despite a promising set up
Story: Kyrah and Issac, former elite operatives turned lovers, go on the run with their son after their old team puts a bounty on their heads. Hunted by their ex-boss Jack Cinder, they must fight to protect their family and confront their past. Review: 'Shadow Force' is a film that feels all too familiar, offering little new within its overdone premise. It's a standard action thriller that doesn't bother to break any molds. The plot takes too many liberties, never properly explaining key elements, and leaves the audience to fill in the gaps. While the action sequences may keep you engaged momentarily, the film quickly loses its grip, leaving you indifferent to what's happening on screen. Despite the high stakes and potential for a gripping story, the lack of depth makes it a forgettable experience. The plot centers on Kyrah Owens (Kerry Washington) and Issac Saar (Omar Sy), two former elite operatives who worked for a covert unit called Shadow Force. When they fall in love and have a child, they decide to leave their violent world behind to protect their son. However, their past catches up with them when Isaac's identity is revealed while saving their son during a bank robbery. Once their former boss, Jack Cinder (Mark Strong), discovers they are alive, he places a bounty on their heads and sends a team of skilled assassins to kill them. The couple, forced to go on the run, must rely on their instincts and combat skills to survive. From Mexico to Spain to Bolivia, the action-packed journey unfolds with high-speed chases and near-death encounters. The film suffers from a lack of clarity, particularly when it comes to its central premise. The audience is never truly given an understanding of what Shadow Force is or what Kyrah and Isaac have been doing before the events of the film. If their crime is simply falling in love and wanting to raise a family, it feels like a flimsy excuse for a plot. While the action sequences are thrilling, the narrative leaves much to be desired. The few moments of warmth, especially between Kyrah, Issac, and their son Ky, bring a brief sense of emotional connection. Issac's use of French adds an interesting layer to his character, giving a natural, authentic feel to the portrayal, but these moments are overshadowed by a confusing and shallow storyline. Kerry Washington's performance is a major letdown, especially when compared to her past work. Her portrayal feels uninspired and flat, lacking the depth and intensity needed for such a high-stakes role. It's hard to believe this is the same actress who delivered a brilliant performance in her previous film 'The Six Triple Eight.' Mark Strong, on the other hand, brings a sense of menace and gravitas to the character of Jack Cinder, proving to be a strong presence in his role as the antagonist. But it's Omar Sy who stands out in this film. Despite being French, Sy is perfectly at ease in an English-language film, delivering a performance that balances both toughness and warmth effortlessly. His character feels real, and his natural charisma elevates the film, making him the one redeeming aspect. 'Shadow Force' never fully capitalizes on the potential its premise offers. It stays on the surface level, failing to dive deeper into its characters or plot. While it delivers on action, it never goes the extra mile, and in the end, it remains a forgettable, average film.
Yahoo
10-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Kerry Washington Models Glossy Le Silla Croc Pumps on ‘The Kelly Clarkson Show'
Kerry Washington went on 'The Kelly Clarkson Show' recently alongside Omar Sy, with whom she stars in the upcoming film 'Shadow Force,' for an episode airing this week wearing a skirt and top ensemble rounded out by a pair of Le Silla pumps. Washington went with a monochrome black outfit featuring an off-the-shoulder long sleeve sweater with a wide V-neck and a leather midi skirt with a reptilian pattern. Complementing his co-star, Sy showcased a white top, blue leather jacket and straight-leg pants. Clarkson, meanwhile, wore Mac Duggal's Boucle Short Sleeve Mini Dress with Pockets, which is marked at a price of $298. More from Footwear News Carly Pearce Does Allover Silver in Sequined Dress and Jimmy Choo Pumps for ACM Awards Red Carpet Kerry Washington Pops Into Angular Ivory Satin Platform Pumps for the Met Gala 2025 Red Carpet Aligning with the design of her skirt, Washington donned a glossy black crocodile print pump from Le Silla. Showcasing the brand's Bella style, the shoes feature a distinctive silhouette with a skinny cylindrical heel measuring a towering 120 mm — the same height as the popular So Kate style from Christian Louboutin. The Bella silhouette also includes a pointed toe and rounded, low-cut vamp. In addition to the black crocodile print Washington showcased, the Bella style is also offered in leopard print satin lazuli blue patent leather, among other options. The style retails for $862 from the luxury brand. Washington just recently made a statement at the 2025 Met Gala on Monday wearing a Simkhai suit look featuring a blazer and sheer skirt; the ensemble was rounded out by a pair of satin platform pumps. Discover more of Washington's style below. Kerry Washington's Best Shoe Moments of 2025, So Far [PHOTOS] View Gallery10 Images Launch Gallery: Kerry Washington's Best Shoe Moments of 2025, So Far [PHOTOS] Best of Footwear News Deion Sanders' Shoes and Style Evolution Through the Years [PHOTOS] The Most Stylish Met Gala Couples Through The Years [PHOTOS] Kim Kardashian's Met Gala Shoe Looks Through the Years [PHOTOS]
