Atanaria
Cameron Diaz’s long-awaited return to the screen in Back in Action marks her first role in over a decade, sharing the spotlight with Jamie Foxx in a Netflix action-comedy that delivers solid entertainment value but stumbles in its ambition. Directed by Seth Gordon (Horrible Bosses), the film blends espionage, humor, and family drama but often feels like a relic of early-2000s action movies. While Diaz’s undeniable charm and Glenn Close’s delectable cameo elevate the experience, the film’s thin plot and uninspired set pieces keep it from soaring to greater heights.
A Star-Studded Return with a Sparkling Diaz
Diaz, at 52, effortlessly proves that her screen presence hasn’t dimmed, delivering a performance that is as vivacious as it is commanding. Playing Emily, a retired CIA operative now navigating suburban life, Diaz infuses her character with a mix of wit and toughness that recalls her Charlie’s Angels days. Her chemistry with Foxx, portraying her equally retired spy husband Matt, is palpable, lending authenticity to their dynamic as partners in both life and combat. Together, they bring a playful energy to the film that shines brightest during their banter-filled action sequences.
Vintage Tunes and Bone-Crunching Action
One of the film’s standout elements is its audacious use of vintage love songs during high-octane fight scenes. The juxtaposition of ultraviolent choreography with the dulcet tones of classics like Frank Sinatra’s “L.O.V.E.” and Etta James’ “At Last” injects an ironic charm into the proceedings. This polished detail, while arguably overused, sets Back in Action apart from other action-comedies and provides a memorable, if slightly heavy-handed, stylistic flair. The sequences themselves are well-choreographed, with visceral hand-to-hand combat that avoids the overly chaotic editing plaguing many modern action films. However, the relatively small-scale settings—hallways, gas stations, and other modest locales—betray the film’s budget constraints and undermine its blockbuster aspirations.
Glenn Close Steals the Spotlight
Glenn Close’s appearance as Emily’s mother, Ginny, a retired British superspy, injects much-needed vitality into the narrative. Close balances authority and humor with finesse, particularly in scenes where her character’s youthful lover, Nigel (Jamie Demetriou), flounders in critical moments. A standout sequence featuring Nigel’s hapless attempt to avert disaster by fumbling with a laptop is a rare moment where the film successfully blends tension and comedy. Close’s scenes bring depth to an otherwise one-dimensional story, showcasing her ability to command attention even in a supporting role.
