Introduction
Despite the seemingly endless array of action/thriller titles that have filled marquees for decades, most of these films can generally be broken down into two main categories. Shoot-em-ups that take themselves seriously, and others that poke fun at the often ostentatious genre. Which category does the 2021 film Jolt fall into?
Furthermore, there seems to be a trend in action films these days to set some insane context to justify increasingly violent scenes. Since most of these types of built-in plot devices tend to defy reality, it stands to reason that these are the thrillers that fall into the “wink and nod” side of the action movie spectrum.
When done right, this combination of irreverence and rampage provides an exciting, well-balanced romp. It keeps you thinking about it long after the final credits roll. In the new Amazon Original Jolt, a ridiculous premise sets the tone for a film that doesn’t ever take itself too seriously.
Synopsis
The wild ride starts straight out of the gate in the opening sequence where the backstory of protagonist Libby (Kate Beckinsale) is explained. Raised in a tumultuous home, young Libby begins displaying fits of intense anger and physical aggression towards others not typical of the usual childhood tantrum.
As she continues to mature without a loving, stable environment, Libby’s violent episodes worsen to the point that her helpless parents are forced to have her institutionalized. From there, Libby is forced through various courses of treatment and unorthodox therapies, to no avail. Even the military can’t handle her deranged outbursts. This leads to a dishonorable discharge when her rage is turned on by a superior.
Only one psychiatrist, Dr. Munchin (Stanley Tucci), seems to have figured out the key to quelling Libby’s fury. A sudden burst of self-administered electricity at the onset of her episodes helps to squash her usual triggers. Libby can then move through the world like a semi-normal person, who doesn’t lose her mind at the slightest provocation.
Libby and Dr. Munchin continue to work together to keep her unusual symptoms at bay with the unconventional remedy. Still, Libby struggles with day-to-day human interaction due to her affliction. She finally hits it off with a man she doesn’t want to strangle (charmer Jai Courtney), but her newfound joy is squelched when she finds him dead. This triggers her biggest explosion yet, as she avenges his death as the prime suspect.
Analysis
Films with a trigger premise (such as Mayhem, and Guns Akimbo) instantly set the stage for great action with a touch of inherent silliness. In Jolt, Libby’s interactions with over-the-top jerks help validate her tumultuous ways. While this helps illustrate that she’s not a total monster, the eventual revenge angle allows Libby to go bananas without risking her humanity.
Another built-in bonus in this particular rampage film is the variety of locations the antihero visits on her retribution odyssey. As well as all of the lovely action opportunities there within. Freeway chase scene? Check. Underground fight club interruption? Check. Intel from a preteen goth girl hacker? Check. Is hospital melee complete with flying newborns? Check and check!
Director Tanya Wexler deftly balances such havoc by leaning into the absurdness of it all. Where films of a similar nature tend to feel exhausting by the end of the second act, Wexler manages to set a pace and tone that carry the momentum straight through to the twisty end. Her gloomy yet slick aesthetic also helps temper the bonkers storyline.
Performances
One of the biggest factors in Jolt’s appeal is Beckinsale’s portrayal of the lead badass. Though her character suffers daily, Beckinsale’s sideways grin and smart-ass delivery help lighten an otherwise surly demeanor.
Along with Beckinsale’s star power, Stanley Tucci and Susan Sarandon offer the film a touch of prestige. Tucci’s take as the doting psychiatrist committed to helping Libby adds a charming dynamic. While Dr. Munchin’s methods may be somewhat questionable, Tucci’s portrayal makes him feel more like a best friend than a mad scientist.
Sarandon’s role in Jolt is small, but it is far from insignificant. Her bookend appearances tie together some surprises in the narrative, while also adding that nondescript gravitas that only an actor of her caliber can achieve in a handful of frames.
Adding even more needed levity is Bobby Cannavale and Laverne Cox, playing the detectives who are hot on Libby’s trail. Though not quite as bumbling as the Keystone Cops, the officers’ messy pursuit is continually foiled as their suspect evades apprehension time and time again. Cannavale’s take on the “good cop” role is a perfect companion to Cox’s sarcastic “bad cop.” Plus their comical energy and great chemistry make for some of the most enjoyable scenes throughout the film.
Conclusion
The action sequences in Jolt are indeed nowhere near the caliber of shoot-em-up revenge epics like John Wick or Atomic Blonde. However, Beckinsale is no stranger to the genre and certainly holds her own in the never-ending fracas. Jolt is a movie that doesn’t take itself too seriously and has an all-star cast that handily carries the crazy subject matter. All the while maintaining a humorous vibe amid nonstop high-intensity action. It’s a terrific popcorn flick for the summer.
Amazon Studios will release Jolt on Prime Video on July 23rd, 2021. Jolt is directed by Tanya Wexler and written by Scott Wascha. The film stars Kate Beckinsale, Bobby Cannavale, Laverne Cox, Stanley Tucci, Jai Courtney, and Susan Sarandon.
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