Movie Review: The Retirement Plan

 

Michael's Movie Grade: B

A really fun action movie.

This film doesn't intend to be anything more than a fun time at the movies, and it provides just that. This is one of those over-the-top action movies, where we watch bad guys die right and left. What this film provides is fun, over the top and often comedic ways to kill each of them. The film doesn't take any of these action scenes too seriously and that is what makes it work. The action scenes are simply just a lot of fun to watch. Also adding this this movie's charm is of course Nicholas Cage himself. His very nonchalant yet charismatic performance is simply wonderful. There is no doubt this movie wouldn't be anywhere near as fun with someone else in the lead role. What is surprising is that this movie is also helped carried by Grace Byers as his young granddaughter. She is simply so likable and fun in this role and makes every scene with her a joy. This movie also benefits from a really good sense of humor. While it is not an out and out comedy, there are wonderful comedic moments spread throughout the film. 

This however is one of those films, where pretty much anyone who has seen a movie before can see 99% of time exactly what will happen next. Also, as fun and charismatic as our heroes are, nearly all the bad guys (with the exception of a really fun henchman played by Ron Pearlman) are quite boring and bland. Unfortunately, that includes the main two baddies, who are simply less interesting versions of movie villains we have seen a million times. 

This may not be anything deep or game changing, but it certainly is a fun time at the movies.