by Shane Conto, Staff Writer
We can all agree that John Wick changed the landscape of action movies when it was released. Keanu Reeves became a revitalized star and launched one of the best action franchises going today. But what happens when a film becomes an unexpected success? The film world must replicate it! We had a female-led espionage version of John Wick with Atomic Blonde and Hotel Artemis tried to replicate and build upon the crazy mythos of the underworld show in the John Wick franchise. But Netflix wanted in on the game, too, so now we have a female-led action flick filled with underworld mythos and stylish action set pieces. Welcome to Gunpowder Milkshake!
What will define director Navot Papushado’s action flick in this saturated world of mythos-building action flicks?
Papushado’s style and the cast will go a long way in making this a fun and engaging experience for the audience. The style in this film is off the charts. We begin with a neon-filled opening credits sequence that tells you exactly what world you are entering. The production design brings also this world to life, with a classic diner, neon-filled spaces, and an old school and ornate library. This all brings plenty of personality. The cinematography is gorgeous as the color, lighting, and shadows enhance the visuals. The film is so engrossing in this way. You feel like you are living in this world. It does feel a lot like John Wick — so much so that it becomes a running theme. But this film is so well made that the fun you have is infectious.
We cannot possibly forget to talk about the action, right?
As a self-proclaimed action snob, I am picky when it comes to how action is rendered in films. Why do filmmakers continue to cause nausea with too many shaky camera shots or over-editing the action? Why?! But what Papushado does that works so well is that you see the whole action in front of you and can enjoy it. The choreography is a lot of fun as well. To be honest, the creativity that pops up in this film is quite impressive. Karen Gillan’s main character loses the use of some of her limbs for a bit and it leads to a zany and over-the-top set piece that is so much fun. That is just the tip of the iceberg. But this all goes on for just a bit too long. I had fun the whole time, but after a while, the last big action sequence seems to just keep going.
How about this screenplay?
It doesn’t quite match the earnestness when it comes to style and action. This film is a derivative of films like John Wick. You have seen these aspects and story elements plenty of times. You get betrayal, long lost parents, dead parents, vengeful fathers, and so much more. But this hodgepodge of a story works just enough to keep the fun going. Unfortunately, the film also feels like it is just an excuse to put female action stars instead of men, but it does not capitalize enough on it. There are a few throwaway lines about feminism, but not enough thematic exploration or character depth to make this interesting or thought-provoking. Many will say to “turn your brains off,” but that phrase is annoying to me. You can have fun and think at the same time, but most films choose just one. Gunpowder Milkshake just chooses fun.
But what about this stacked cast?
The characters they portray do not have a lot of depth… but they sure are cool. Gillan is a blast in this leading role as she kills it with all the physicality. Lena Headey is also a great addition as her long-lost mother. Then there is a trio of a sweet, steely, and dominant set of “librarians” played by Carla Gugino, Michelle Yeoh, and Angela Bassett respectfully. Each of these actresses nail their roles. Chloe Coleman, the cute girl from My Spy, is a fun addition as a tough girl instead. Paul Giamatti can make all of this exposition fun and Ralph Ineson is endlessly intimidating.
So… should you go check out Gunpowder Milkshake on Netflix?
Do you love action movies? If so, CHECK THIS OUT NOW. You will have a blast. The film is so much fun with plenty of style and cool. That just might be all you need. But if you want depth, you might have to look elsewhere for that.
Grade: B-