Diving into “Those Who Wish Me Dead”: A Star-Studded Thriller with a Few Misses
Let’s delve into the world of Those Who Wish Me Dead (2021), a film adapted from Michael Koryta’s novel. Known in some regions as Eradicators (Hong Kong) or Those Who Want Me Dead (Taiwan), this movie attempts to bring a gripping story of survival to the screen.
Adaptation and the Allure of Familiar Faces
Those Who Wish Me Dead boasts a cast of renowned actors, including Angelina Jolie (reminiscent of her Laura Croft days), Jon Bernthal (bringing his intensity from The Punisher), and Aidan Gillen (instantly recognizable as Littlefinger). The film is set against the dramatic backdrop of dense forests, promising a visually stunning and suspenseful experience.
Synopsis: A Blaze of Characters and Circumstances
The narrative sees Angelina Jolie as Hannah, a smokejumper haunted by the ghosts of a past firefighting tragedy, grappling with PTSD. Jon Bernthal embodies Ethan, a local sheriff with a personal connection to Hannah; they were once an item. The story spends a good chunk of time in act one setting up the status-quo of small-town Montana, and developing these characters until everything changes.
The stakes are raised when Connor, a young boy, becomes entangled in a dangerous conspiracy. His father, Owen, played with nervous energy, stumbles upon incriminating information that puts his son directly in cross-hairs of professional assassins. Owen seeks protection from his brother-in-law, the Sheriff.
The film introduces the deadly duo of Jack and Patrick, portrayed by Aidan Gillen and Nicholas Hoult. Their singular focus is on protecting the organization.
When Hannah’s is determined to keep Connor safe, these stories must collide!
Divergences from the Novel: Where the Film Falters
While Michael Koryta’s novel is a tightly-wound thriller, the movie adaptation struggles with pacing and suffers from a feeling of being disjointed. The lack of cohesion dilutes from the emotional through-line.
At times, it relies too heavily on over-indulgent cinematography. The narrative simplicity suggests a reliance on visuals over substance.
The original novel is more thrilling story. In the book, Jack and Patrick are depicted as much colder executioners. Jace Wilson witness a murder by them and becomes their primary target.
Transforming Character Backstories
The change in the assasions is a curious one. The novel presents the duo are criminal out of Australia – who are made American for some reason in the film adaptation. The backstory is erased. It is only hinted that they may be from Florida.
Weaknesses in Plot Development
The movie awkwardly expands by adding odd scenes to fill time. This lack of focus ultimately dilutes the movie’s message and impact.
Perhaps the biggest misstep is the incomplete storytelling. While Jack and Patrick are active enough, a higher-up is never named. There is no answer as to who issued the hit.
When Star Power Overshadows Substance
The over-influence of celebrity acting is obvious, as Angelina Jolie’s screentime is much higher despite not being the protagonist of the book. Ultimately, they cast stars so they made them important. In reports, they also allegedly considered Nicholas Cage for the part as sheriff.
Final Verdict:
In final analysis, Those Who Wish Me Dead is Laura Croft meets The Punisher and faces off against Littlefinger. A compelling narrative sacrificed at the altar of star appeal. A solid concept with a rushed story.