Ric Roman Waugh's 'Kandahar' is a Generic Action Flick Wasted on Gerard Butler
A CIA operative and his translator flee from special forces in Afghanistan after exposing a covert mission
WEB Review: Gerard Butler stars in 'Kandahar', a generic action flick that feels dated and stale
Ric Roman Waugh's "Kandahar" is a by-the-numbers action thriller that squanders the talents of Gerard Butler and wastes its timely setting in Afghanistan. The film follows Tom Harris (Butler), a CIA operative who, along with his Afghan translator Ahmed (Navid Negahban), uncovers a covert mission that could have disastrous consequences. When their cover is blown, they must flee from relentless special forces led by the ruthless Jack Willis (Mojean Aria).
Despite its ripped-from-the-headlines premise, "Kandahar" feels dated and stale. The script, co-written by Waugh and Mitchell LaFortune, is full of clunky dialogue and predictable plot twists. The action sequences, while competently executed, lack the visceral impact of Waugh's previous work like "Angel Has Fallen." And the film's attempts to grapple with the complex geopolitics of Afghanistan come across as superficial and uninformed.
Butler, usually a reliable action star, seems bored and out of his element here. His performance lacks the charisma and intensity that made him a star in films like "300" and "Olympus Has Fallen." Negahban fares better, bringing a quiet dignity to the role of Ahmed. However, his character is often sidelined in favor of the more action-oriented storyline.
Ultimately, "Kandahar" is a generic and forgettable action flick that fails to live up to its potential. It's a shame, as Waugh has proven himself capable of directing exciting and thought-provoking films in the past. But with its uninspired script, lackluster action, and superficial treatment of its subject matter, "Kandahar" is a major disappointment.
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