Knowing Bruce Willis' diagnosis of cognitive Aphasia, it is hard to imagine his struggles in filming these last several films. I am happy to say, WRONG PLACE seems to be one of the rare occasions where the production ultimately does NOT seem hindered by his disease progression. In fact, the film itself is enjoyable, even if at times predictable.
The standouts this go round come from the supporting leads and, surprisingly, from ensemble members.
Director Mike Burns (Out of Death) does a good job of keeping the pace going throughout, something that seemed to be hit or miss in other recent Willis movies. The story of a meth cook hunting down a former cop (Willis) is what's just on the service. Below is a tale of heartbreak, loss and love. Stacey Danger (The Neon Demon) as "Tammy" and Ashley Greene (Twilight) as "Chloe" do an excellent job tittering between classic thriller vibes and relationship goals. Greene lights up the screen as a true badass, with her moments kicking tail being some of the true highlights.
Massi Furlan (Jumanji: The Next Level) is compelling as "Virgil" (even when his accent seems to wane). His shifty eyes and swagger are engaging.
Texas Battle (The Bold and the Beautiful) as "Captain East" gives one of the most solid performances in the film (sprinkled with some much needed humor). He is flanked by award-winning theater veteran Josh Rhett Noble (Law & Order: SVU) as "Officer Richter" who does a stellar job grounding each scene he has with his limited time on screen.
Michael Sirow (Fortress: Sniper's Eye) gives us a classic bad guy (including bumbling mistakes) and displays quite a bit of layers to "Jake".
Finally, Willis pulls through as "Frank". It's hard not to think of his real life struggles when you see him in despair over possibly losing more of those he cares about. Much like the fear of losing his abilities in real life. There's a slight twist that makes you think the film will land differently at the end, but the relationship he has with his on screen daughter feels heartfelt and pure. (Much like real life.)
All in all, it is a surprisingly inclusive ride you'll look forward to taking.
The standouts this go round come from the supporting leads and, surprisingly, from ensemble members.
Director Mike Burns (Out of Death) does a good job of keeping the pace going throughout, something that seemed to be hit or miss in other recent Willis movies. The story of a meth cook hunting down a former cop (Willis) is what's just on the service. Below is a tale of heartbreak, loss and love. Stacey Danger (The Neon Demon) as "Tammy" and Ashley Greene (Twilight) as "Chloe" do an excellent job tittering between classic thriller vibes and relationship goals. Greene lights up the screen as a true badass, with her moments kicking tail being some of the true highlights.
Massi Furlan (Jumanji: The Next Level) is compelling as "Virgil" (even when his accent seems to wane). His shifty eyes and swagger are engaging.
Texas Battle (The Bold and the Beautiful) as "Captain East" gives one of the most solid performances in the film (sprinkled with some much needed humor). He is flanked by award-winning theater veteran Josh Rhett Noble (Law & Order: SVU) as "Officer Richter" who does a stellar job grounding each scene he has with his limited time on screen.
Michael Sirow (Fortress: Sniper's Eye) gives us a classic bad guy (including bumbling mistakes) and displays quite a bit of layers to "Jake".
Finally, Willis pulls through as "Frank". It's hard not to think of his real life struggles when you see him in despair over possibly losing more of those he cares about. Much like the fear of losing his abilities in real life. There's a slight twist that makes you think the film will land differently at the end, but the relationship he has with his on screen daughter feels heartfelt and pure. (Much like real life.)
All in all, it is a surprisingly inclusive ride you'll look forward to taking.
