Freelance (2023)

Movie Synopsis

“Freelance” (2023) tells the story of a retired special forces operative who reluctantly agrees to take on one last mission. John, played by the charismatic lead actor, is a man trying to escape the violent and dangerous life he once led. But when an old friend calls in a favor, John finds himself deep in the jungles of a politically unstable country, tasked with rescuing a high-profile journalist, Claire. As John and Claire navigate the treacherous landscape filled with mercenaries, rebel forces, and double-crosses, they must rely on each other to survive. The action-packed thriller keeps audiences on the edge of their seats as John battles not only the external threats but also his inner demons and the ghosts of his past. The movie blends intense action sequences with emotional depth, exploring themes of redemption, loyalty, and the price of freedom.

Movie Details

• Genre: Action, Thriller
• PG: 13+
• Release Name: Freelance (2023)
• Tagline: “One last mission, one final chance for redemption.”
• Audio language(s): English
• Runtime: 1 hour 53 minutes
• Release date: October 6, 2023
• Production company: AGC Studios
• Movie trailer link on YouTube:

Cast: Who Acted Who?

“Freelance” boasts a talented ensemble cast that brings its characters to life with energy and intensity. John, the retired special forces operative, is played by the seasoned actor John Cena, known for his imposing presence and ability to balance action with moments of vulnerability. His portrayal of John is both physically commanding and emotionally resonant, showcasing the inner turmoil of a man haunted by his past. Alice Eve stars as Claire, the journalist who finds herself in over her head in a hostile environment. Eve delivers a performance that is both strong and relatable, portraying Claire as a determined and resourceful woman who is not just a damsel in distress. The supporting cast includes Marton Csokas, who plays the role of the enigmatic and dangerous mercenary leader, and Christian Slater, who portrays John’s old friend and the one who pulls him back into the fray. Each actor brings their A-game, making the characters memorable and contributing to the film’s intense atmosphere.

Crew

Behind the scenes, “Freelance” is helmed by a team of experienced filmmakers who ensure that the movie delivers on all fronts. Pierre Morel, known for his work on “Taken,” directs the film, bringing his expertise in crafting high-stakes action sequences. Morel’s direction is sharp, keeping the tension high throughout the movie and making every action scene feel impactful. The screenplay is written by Jacob Lentz, whose script skillfully blends action with character development, providing a narrative that is both engaging and emotionally driven. The cinematography by David Lanzenberg captures the lush yet perilous jungle setting with a keen eye, making the environment almost a character in itself. The editing by Frédéric Thoraval is tight, ensuring that the pace never lags, and every scene serves a purpose. The film’s score, composed by Nathaniel Méchaly, adds to the overall tension and drama, perfectly complementing the on-screen action. The collaborative effort of the crew results in a movie that is not only thrilling but also polished and visually stunning.

Filming Locations

“Freelance” takes viewers on a visual journey through some of the most breathtaking and rugged landscapes. The primary filming locations were in Colombia, where the dense jungles and rugged terrain provided the perfect backdrop for the film’s intense action sequences. The jungles of Colombia add an element of authenticity and danger, with the lush green canopy and unpredictable weather conditions contributing to the film’s atmosphere. Several key scenes were shot in the remote areas of the Colombian Amazon, where the cast and crew had to contend with real-life challenges such as extreme humidity, difficult terrain, and the presence of local wildlife. Additional filming took place in the capital city of Bogotá, where urban scenes were captured, providing a stark contrast to the wilderness. The choice of locations not only adds to the film’s authenticity but also immerses the audience in the story, making them feel as though they are right there with the characters in their fight for survival.

The Soundtrack of “Freelance”

The soundtrack of “Freelance” plays a crucial role in heightening the film’s tension and enhancing its emotional beats. Composed by Nathaniel Méchaly, the score blends orchestral elements with modern electronic sounds, creating a soundscape that is both intense and atmospheric. The film features several notable tracks, including “Jungle Warfare,” which plays during one of the movie’s most intense action sequences, and “Ghosts of the Past,” a haunting melody that underscores John’s inner struggles. Another standout track is “Final Redemption,” which swells during the film’s climax, adding to the emotional weight of the scene. Additionally, the movie includes a few licensed songs that are strategically placed to complement key moments. For instance, “Welcome to the Jungle” by Guns N’ Roses sets the tone early on, while “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor is used in a montage sequence that highlights John’s preparation for the mission. The soundtrack not only complements the film’s narrative but also adds an extra layer of intensity, making it an integral part of the viewing experience.

The Real Story Behind “Freelance” (Fact vs. Fiction)

While “Freelance” is a work of fiction, it draws inspiration from real-life events and geopolitical issues. The film’s depiction of a politically unstable country and the involvement of mercenaries in a rescue mission mirrors real-world scenarios where private military contractors operate in conflict zones. The character of John, while not based on a specific individual, is representative of many former special forces operatives who transition into the private security sector after their military careers. The film also touches on themes of journalistic integrity and the dangers faced by reporters in war zones, which are very much grounded in reality. However, the movie takes creative liberties with its portrayal of events, often exaggerating situations for dramatic effect. The intense action sequences, while thrilling, are not always realistic, and the portrayal of the mercenaries and their operations is more Hollywood than true-to-life. Nonetheless, the film’s blend of fact and fiction makes for an engaging story that resonates with audiences, even if it’s not entirely accurate.

“Freelance” Box Office Performance

“Freelance” opened to a strong box office reception, earning an estimated $25 million in its opening weekend. The film’s combination of star power, thrilling action sequences, and a gripping storyline proved to be a winning formula, drawing audiences to theaters in droves. In the weeks following its release, the movie continued to perform well, particularly in international markets where action films tend to have a broad appeal. By the end of its theatrical run, “Freelance” had grossed over $100 million worldwide, making it a commercial success. The film’s box office performance was bolstered by positive word-of-mouth and a well-executed marketing campaign that highlighted its action-packed plot and stellar cast. Additionally, the movie benefited from a lack of major competition during its release window, allowing it to dominate the box office. The success of “Freelance” has led to discussions of a potential sequel, as well as solidified its place as one of the standout action films of the year.

“Freelance” Review: Is It Worth Watching?

“Freelance” has received mixed to positive reviews from critics and audiences alike, with many praising its action sequences and performances, while others critique its somewhat predictable plot. The film’s strengths lie in its fast-paced direction, well-choreographed fight scenes, and strong performances, particularly by John Cena and Alice Eve. However, some reviewers have pointed out that the film doesn’t break any new ground in the action-thriller genre, following a familiar formula that may not surprise seasoned moviegoers.

Social Media Reviews

On Twitter, user @MovieBuff123 wrote, “Freelance is a solid action flick with some intense moments. John Cena delivers, as always! #FreelanceMovie.” Another Twitter user, @ActionFanatic, commented, “Great action, but the plot is kind of predictable. Still worth a watch if you’re into thrillers. #Freelance.” Over on Facebook, Jane Doe posted, “Loved the chemistry between the leads and the stunning locations! A must-see for action lovers.” On Rotten Tomatoes, user reviews are varied, with one reviewer stating, “It’s entertaining, but don’t expect anything groundbreaking.” Another review on IMDb reads, “Freelance is a fun ride, even if it’s not the most original film out there.”

“Freelance” vs Similar Movies

“Freelance” vs “Taken”

“Freelance” draws inevitable comparisons to “Taken,” given that both films share a director, Pierre Morel, and feature a protagonist who is a former special forces operative on a dangerous mission. While “Taken” is more focused on a personal vendetta with Liam Neeson’s character trying to rescue his daughter, “Freelance” expands its scope by involving political intrigue and a rescue mission in a foreign country. Both films are fast-paced and action-packed, but “Taken” arguably has a more emotional core, driven by the father-daughter relationship.

“Freelance” vs “John Wick”

Comparisons with “John Wick” are also common, as both movies feature a skilled protagonist who must confront his violent past. However, while “John Wick” is more stylized with its choreographed fight scenes and underworld mythos, “Freelance” is more grounded in reality, focusing on the protagonist’s internal struggles and the external dangers of the mission. John Cena’s character in “Freelance” lacks the almost superhuman aura of John Wick but compensates with a more relatable, human vulnerability. The action in “Freelance” is intense but not as hyper-stylized as in “John Wick,” making it a different viewing experience despite some thematic similarities.

“Freelance” vs “Extraction”

“Freelance” also shares similarities with Netflix’s “Extraction,” starring Chris Hemsworth. Both films revolve around a mercenary tasked with a high-stakes rescue mission in a hostile environment. “Extraction” is noted for its relentless pace and gritty action sequences, especially the one-take action scenes that immerse the audience in the chaos. “Freelance,” on the other hand, blends action with a deeper exploration of the characters’ pasts and motives, offering a slightly more balanced narrative. While “Extraction” leans heavily into raw, unfiltered violence, “Freelance” balances its action with emotional depth and character development.

“Freelance” vs “The Equalizer”

When comparing “Freelance” to “The Equalizer” series starring Denzel Washington, the differences are more about tone and style. “The Equalizer” is a more methodical and psychological action-thriller, with Washington’s character meticulously planning and executing his missions with a sense of justice. “Freelance,” however, is more of a straightforward action film, where survival and improvisation are key themes. While “The Equalizer” focuses on a lone vigilante righting wrongs in a more personal, intimate setting, “Freelance” takes a broader approach with its jungle warfare and geopolitical stakes.

“Freelance” vs “American Assassin”

“Freelance” can also be compared to “American Assassin,” another action film that involves covert operatives and high-stakes missions. Both films feature protagonists who are haunted by their pasts and thrust into situations that test their resolve and skills. However, “American Assassin” leans more into the espionage and thriller elements, with its plot involving counter-terrorism efforts and complex international conspiracies. “Freelance” stays more grounded, focusing on the immediate mission and the personal growth of its characters amidst the chaos.

Where to Watch/Download “Freelance”

“Freelance” is available for viewing across multiple platforms, making it accessible to a wide audience. For those who prefer the cinematic experience, the movie is still showing in select theaters, especially in major cities where action films tend to have a strong following. If you’re looking to watch it from the comfort of your home, the movie is available on several streaming services. You can stream “Freelance” on platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, where it is included with a subscription. Alternatively, it’s available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, and YouTube Movies.

For those who prefer downloading, the movie can be downloaded for offline viewing through the aforementioned digital platforms. It’s important to ensure you’re using legitimate services to avoid any legal issues or malware risks. Additionally, some local streaming services might have the film available, so it’s worth checking options like Showmax or your cable provider’s on-demand service. Always opt for official and legal means to watch or download movies to support the filmmakers and ensure the best quality experience.

Conclusion

“Freelance” offers a thrilling ride for action movie fans, with its high-octane sequences, strong performances, and a narrative that keeps you engaged from start to finish. While it may not reinvent the wheel in terms of its plot or themes, it delivers exactly what it promises—an entertaining action film with a touch of emotional depth. Whether you’re heading to the cinema or opting for a cozy night in, “Freelance” is readily available across various platforms, making it easy to catch this latest entry into the action-thriller genre. So, grab your popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the ride that “Freelance” has to offer.