Ah...Alright

Rating: 5/10 (20 January 2011)

Robert Schwentke's 'Red' is an average cinematic experience that fell short of my expectations. The reason? The mostly uninspiring Screenplay, that appeals in bits and pieces. Action scenes are good, so are some performances, but this box office hit lacks soul & the fast-paced energy one expects from it.
'Red' is about a yesterday team of CIA's agents gearing up, after an old rival decides to bump them off, as he feels they know a lot about him. Thus the seniors go, no holds barred, to get their nemesis down!
To give it's due, 'Red' does hold appeal. The problem is that, the writing in the first 20-25 minutes is very loose and doesn't engage. The film actually begins after John Malkovich's entry, and remains steady. But the climax, is a letdown. Robert Schwentke tries his best to rise above the disappointing screenplay with his able direction, while Florian Ballhaus's Cinematography carries a look. The Editing is just fine.
Performance-Wise: Bruce Willis gets the highest screen time, and he seems to be pipped up. Morgan Freeman doesn't get much to do, while Thespian Helen Mirren enjoys her part. John Malkovich is excellent. He truly steals the show. Mary-Louise Parker does a fair job. Brian Cox is hugely amusing. Karl Urban is very sincere. Richard Dreyfuss, after a long time, seems to be in command. Julian McMahon is wasted.
On the whole, 'Red' is half-baked, harmless entertainment, at best. Watch it, if you must!