Try not to judge Wanted because it is based on a comic book. Although for some moviegoers that may be a pro, for others it’s a con. Don’t let the comic book part draw up images of a wannabe Spider-Man or some second-rate superhero movie retracing the successful steps of Iron Man. Though the original theatrical trailer for the film came off initially as absurd and grasping for cheap thrills, the film does manage to suck you into its intricate storyline. Visual action sequences are so abundant in the film, afterward they may all mesh together as one giant car chase, more or less.
Average Joe Turns Assassin
Wesley Gibson (James McAvoy), an account manager, is rather jaded by his humdrum life where he faces an obnoxious boss, a stressful job, an anxiety problem, a jerk of a best friend, and a girlfriend who cheats on him with said jerk of a best friend--all this, on a regular basis. When he is confronted by Fox (Angelina Jolie) and is taken by her startling claim that she knew his father and that he was one of the world’s greatest assassins, he is immediately thrust head-first into the world of The Fraternity.
Assassins United
The Fraternity is an ancient group of assassins that privately pride themselves on taking down individuals who corrupt society, which really is as broad as it sounds. At one point in the film, Fox explains to Wesley that she sees it as “Kill one, save a thousand.” Because Wesley’s father was in the The Fraternity, and was murdered by a rogue ex-member, the group’s leader, Sloan (Morgan Freeman) uses his convincing wisdom to tell Wesley that it is his destiny to avenge his father’s death. Wesley is hesitant at first but soon concedes, then beginning brutal physical training to kill Cross (Thomas Kretschmann), his father’s killer.
Though the plotline initially seems rather mediocre—a normal guy finds out it is his life’s destiny to be a take-no-prisoners assassin and to avenge his father. However, mid-movie a few twists and turns come out of nowhere and are a welcome surprise—taking the film in a different direction.
Astounding Visuals
Wanted doesn’t hold back when it comes to visual effects. Director Timur Bekmambetov makes good use of computer technology and packs the film with brilliant graphics that take power of the screen. Though admittedly, watching bullets hit each other head on more than three or four times in one movie is a bit ridiculous, it is so aesthetically pleasing, many will likely overlook such a minor detail.
Good (Casting) Call
Casting Scottish actor McAvoy as the lead will bring him to the attention of a wider audience. Though McAvoy played critically acclaimed roles in Atonement and The Last King of Scotland, starring in an action film will bring his talent to the masses. Having Jolie in the film was perhaps the biggest draw. In fact, it is perhaps due to her role as Fox that the film broke the record for the highest grossing film with an R-rating to open in June, beating out last year’s champion, Knocked Up. In total, Wanted raked in $51.1 million dollars in its opening weekend, far more than Universal Pictures expected.
The Final Word
Wanted is a sleek thriller that meshes a complex yet intriguing storyline with spectacular visuals that at points, define the film. McAvoy and Jolie are a different kind of on-screen couple and add dimension to the story. Wanted’s strength lies in its visual components, which engage and captivate the audience with a one-two punch.
