AKA
Plot
In a world where loyalty is currency and betrayal is a deadly sin, AKA's protagonist, Jack (played by Michael Jai White), is an elite special operations agent consumed by his duty to take down a powerful crime syndicate. With his skills honed from years of experience, Jack goes undercover as "Johnnie" to gather intel on the syndicate's inner workings. As he embeds himself within the organization, Jack finds himself drawn to the enigmatic and charismatic leader, Marcus (played by Byron Mann), who runs the operation with an iron fist. However, what starts as a mere acquaintance blossoms into an unlikely bond between Jack and Marcus' young son, Julian (played by Dante Beze). As Jack navigates the treacherous landscape of crime and corruption, he begins to question his own morality. His mission to take down the syndicate is put to the test when he finds himself torn between his duty as a agent and his growing paternal instincts towards Julian. The lines between right and wrong become increasingly blurred as Jack's double life becomes more complicated. He must confront the consequences of his actions and decide where his true allegiance lies - with the organization or with the innocent child who has captured his heart. With its intricate web of characters, AKA delves into themes of loyalty, redemption, and the complexities of human relationships. As Jack walks the fine line between good and evil, he must confront the darkness within himself and make a choice that will forever change the course of his life.
Reviews
Cora
Hidden danger beneath a serene surface. A surprisingly original take.
Taylor
French films, man, they're just so... rotted, stinky, and long, with this weird sultry air to them. It's like a bland action flick trying to dabble in social issues, resembling Hollywood's mass-produced garbage yet not quite. The actors are ugly and wooden, but they don't even stick to the main plot. It's hard to describe the feeling.
Kimber
The Hollywood three-act hero formula doesn't work for every country and film, and this one is a prime example of the European style. By placing the hero in an environment of racial conflict and political corruption, this film distinguishes itself from Hollywood genre films and highlights the humanistic concerns of France. Those haters in the comments section shouldn't judge this film through the lens of Hollywood genre expectations! Furthermore, against the backdrop of globalization, racial conflict in France is a widespread issue facing France and even Europe. This film's exposure of racial conflict and political corruption is just as thrilling as *District B13*.
Bradley
Extraction from a silenced past, robbery in a chaotic alley, a raid on a drug lord's nest, and an awakening to confront a betraying father: this film explores the vulnerability that children create, and doubles down with a second for good measure. The plot meanders a bit for an action movie, but thankfully, it's all action with no fluff. The ending's blunt indictment of its own national machinery as two-faced in the massacre of women and children is truly a provocative indictment of France. Definitely worth watching.
Caroline
Feels more like "Man on Fire" than "The Bourne Identity." If the lead were a Hollywood A-lister, the score would definitely jump. Blame it on his perpetually dour expression, but hey, he wrote the script! Adding half a star to round it up to 4.
