Review by Justin Waldman for Mr. Will Wong
Jennifer Garner proved in Alias and Elektra that she could kick some serious butt. She also proved that she is a genuine bada$$ and can channel her inner Liam Neeson from Taken, as Peppermint arguably could be her own vehicle. The Movie has some definite hiccups, especially in its ludicrousness, but the action sequences certainly make it all worthwhile!
Riley North (Jennifer Garner) had everything taken from her when some gang members rolled up to the local carnival and preformed a drive by on her husband and daughter. Five years later, after disappearing out of the public eye, Riley resurfaces on the anniversary of her life changing forever to seek vengeance on the men responsible for taking out her family. Detective Stan Carmichael (John Gallagher Jr.) and FBI Agent Lisa Inman (Annie Ilonzeh) work together to find Riley and bring her in before she continues her vengeance filled killing spree.
Peppermint aside from the over-the-top way in which it is told, is believable thanks to Jennifer Garner. Her family was taken from her and then she gets herself into better shape, stronger, and plans for five years her vengeance. Her work in Alias and Elektra removes the surprise element as audience members will already know that she can whoop butt and take names, but seeing her do it after the last decade of rolls she has taken on is refreshing and entertaining. Gallagher Jr. and Ilonzeh also provide for strong supporting characters, but the Plot makes their motives more apparent than intended.
Peppermint works as an exaggerated action movie that delivers 102 minutes of adrenaline-filled entertainment. If there were a few more surprises, and less ‘saw it coming’ moments, the Film would have proven to be better, but there was no shortage of excitement. Peppermint is this year’s Taken, except with a strong female lead – the best work Garner has delivered in years.
Elevation Pictures release PEPPERMINT in theatres on Friday, September 7, 2018.
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