A Twisty Spy Thriller Falls Short: A Review of “Unlocked”
“Unlocked” is a spy thriller that promises a gripping ride but ultimately stumbles due to an unconvincing plot.
The film centers on CIA agent Alice Racine (Noomi Rapace), working undercover in London. When a courier for Muslim extremists is apprehended, Alice is thrust into the role of interrogator, tasked with uncovering the details of a planned mission. However, the interrogation takes an unexpected turn, forcing Alice to go on the run. She soon realizes that she can trust no one and that she alone holds the key to preventing a devastating terrorist attack on London.
Fun fact: Noomi Rapace sustained a broken nose and other minor injuries while filming the action-packed scenes.
Director Michael Apted, known for his work on the James Bond film “The World Is Not Enough,” ventures into Bourne-esque territory with “Unlocked.” Eschewing glamour and flamboyant villains, the film aims for realism, albeit with a far-fetched narrative. In the end, one can’t help but wish Apted had stuck to the formula that made his earlier Bond film a success.
Interestingly, the script for “Unlocked” made it onto Hollywood’s prestigious “Black List” in 2008, a compilation of the most promising unproduced screenplays.
Strengths and Weaknesses
“Unlocked” boasts two main strengths: a respectable cast (Rapace, John Malkovich, Michael Douglas, Orlando Bloom, Toni Collette) and a fast-paced, twisty plot. The film introduces a multitude of characters, each of whom, except for the protagonist, becomes a suspect. The audience is left to ponder: Who is manipulating the CIA operation for their own gain? Who wants the terrorist attack to succeed? Who is pulling the strings in the intricate web Alice is trying to unravel? And whom can she trust among those offering assistance? These questions keep viewers engaged, and some of the answers may not be immediately apparent.
However, the film falters when it reaches its climax and Alice uncovers the ultimate truth. The revelation is implausible, even by the standards of the genre, and defies common sense. The main villain lacks any compelling motive for their actions, undermining the entire narrative and leaving a sense of disappointment.
Lackluster Action and Underdeveloped Characters
Even with a more convincing villain, the film’s ending would still be difficult to enjoy. While the plot receives ample attention, the filmmakers seem to have forgotten the importance of impactful action in a modern spy thriller. The action sequences in “Unlocked” are underwhelming, falling short of even some television series. There’s a lack of expensive pyrotechnics, inventive choreography, and impressive displays of martial arts. The final confrontation is particularly disappointing, as the “final boss” proves to be Alice’s weakest opponent.
The renowned cast members are unable to salvage the film, instead highlighting its weaknesses. None of them manage to inject depth into the bland, cardboard-cutout characters they are tasked with portraying. Only Bloom’s character offers a glimpse of human complexity, but he spends far less time on screen than the film’s poster, featuring only Rapace and Bloom, would suggest.
Final Verdict
Does “Unlocked” offer anything else of value? Unfortunately, no. Even for the most forgiving viewer, it’s a disposable film that loses its appeal once the plot is revealed. Those who aren’t avid fans of spy stories should steer clear of “Unlocked” altogether. It’s a lackluster showcase of the cast’s talents, to say the least.