Luc Besson made a strong first impression as an action director with La Femme Nikita and he’s been casting women (and men) in slick flix like this ever since. This time, former model Sasha Luss plays a Russian who’s recruited by the KGB to carry out ruthless murders (while posing as a model in Paris). As expected, there are flashy car chases, intense hand/gun fights (sometimes straining reality) and a high body count (ditto on credulity). The narrative jumps back and forth in time to create a Russian doll plot of intrigue and espionage. The movie’s slick and the performances are fine (esp. Helen Mirren as her steely boss). Besson breaks no new ground, but it’s still an entertaining and attractive addition to his filmography.
(3.5 / 5)