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Bastille Day

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Idris Elba and  Richard Madden in Bastille Day. (Black Sheep Productions)
Idris Elba and Richard Madden in Bastille Day. (Black Sheep Productions)

What it's about:

When an American pickpocket living in Paris steals a bag that contains more than just a wallet, Michael Mason finds himself in the hands of the CIA. Sean Briar, the case’s field agent, soon realises that Michael is just a pawn in a much bigger game. But Michael is also the best asset to uncover a large-scale criminal conspiracy in the heart of the police. Going against commands, Briar recruits Michael to help track down the source of the corruption. As a 24-hour chase ensues, the unlikely duo discover that they’re are both targets—and must rely upon each other in order to take down a common enemy.

What we thought:

Bastille Day was one of those films that I didn’t expect much from. I mean I’m an Idris Elba fan so I knew it would be watchable – however I wasn’t prepared for just how much I would enjoy it. 

A smart, action-packed and highly entertaining flick, Bastille Day is absolutely worth the watch. 

Director James Watkins skillfully intertwines modern elements with an age-old action movie recipe. The film artfully hacks into current themes like the prevalence of terrorism and the power of social media. 

With Paris as its background the film plays off in an eerily familiar setting that heightens the intensity of the unfolding storyline. 

Idris (as Sean Briar) is so comfortable in his hardcore CIA agent role that you can’t help but be pulled into the drama. Richard Madden (as Michael Mason) is the perfect anti-hero protagonist that we can’t help but root for. 

The film has a rawness to it that adds to its uber-realness. This isn’t a perfectly polished mega-action movie that unfolds like other summer blockbusters. It’s edgier, strays from the norm and delivers something unexpectedly awesome. 

Bastille Day has an international flavour to it that is fresh, modern and definitely worth a trip to the cinema.  


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