“Shadow Force,” The latest action thriller starring Kerry Washington and Omar Sy, promised high-stakes espionage and gripping family drama but ultimately delivers a forgettable experience plagued by weak execution. Directed by Joe Carnahan (“The Grey,” “Smokin’ Aces”), the film struggles to rise above its budgetary constraints, resulting in an underwhelming addition to the genre.
Plot Overview
The film follows Kyrah Owens (Kerry Washington) and Isaac (Omar Sy), former covert operatives forced into hiding after their ruthless ex-commander, Cinder (Mark Strong), targets them. Now living off the grid with their young son (Ky Sarr), the couple must evade assassination while plotting their revenge. What unfolds is a standard-issue chase thriller, complete with shootouts, betrayals, and a child caught in the crossfire.
A Promising Premise, Poorly Executed
On paper, “Shadow Force” has the ingredients of a solid action flick—espionage, a high-powered cast, and a director known for gritty storytelling. Yet, the film falters in nearly every department. The cinematography and lighting feel amateurish, a surprising misstep for Carnahan, whose previous work showcased dynamic visuals.
One particularly baffling sequence involves a fog-drenched car chase where antagonists fire an absurd number of flares, seemingly to mask the lack of actual tension. As the reviewer from Film Threat noted, it feels like a cheap trick to “make this cheap chase sequence look cooler than it really is.”
The Only Bright Spot: The Kid
The film’s sole redeeming quality is young Jahleel Kamara, who plays Ky Sarr and Isaac’s son. His charming performance, including an ongoing Lionel Richie sing-along motif, injects fleeting moments of heart into an otherwise dull narrative. Unfortunately, even his presence can’t salvage the film’s uninspired action and sluggish pacing.
Final Thought
“Shadow Force” is, at best, a passable time-waster for die-hard action fans—and even then, only if watched for free. As the reviewer bluntly put it: “This is a 75 million movie made for 25 million, and it just shows.” With lackluster direction, forgettable set pieces, and wasted talent, this is one mission good for the night. you can give it a try or safely skip.
★★☆☆☆ (2/5)
Watch it on: YouTube / Tubi
Runtime: ~100 minutes
Genre: Action, Thriller
Director: Joe Carnahan
Cast: Kerry Washington, Omar Sy, Mark Strong
