Ryan Reynolds plays a bodyguard assigned to protect hitman Samuel L. Jackson, who’s the chief witness against in an international trial. Their trip to the Hague alternates between some pretty cool car chases (especially the one thru Amsterdam’s canals), a few highly active but not special fights and too much talk. The interplay takes advantage of each actor’s style: self-depreciating, offhand wry comments from Reynolds and profanity-laden, raucous attitude from Jackson. To make this work, the chemistry needs to be there…it’s OK. Without their special delivery, the terse chatter would fall flat. Meanwhile, the bodyguard’s relationship with his ex is trite and dull. Still, there’s sufficient energy and a fun attitude that makes it passable, but quickly-forgotten summer action fluff.
(3 / 5)