Movie Review of 2019’s ‘Polar’ Starring Mads Mikkelsen and Vanessa Hudgens

Netflix’s new movie, Polar, is based off a graphic novel under the same name by Victor Santos. Directed by Jonas Åkerlund, the movie stars Actor Mads Mikkelsen. I have always been a big fan of Mikkelsen since seeing him in Hannibal. I think he is an even greater Hannibal than Anthony Hopkins was. When the trailer dropped for Polar, I was instantly sold on it, looking like a John Wick type of shoot em’ up movie. Was it everything I thought it would be? Read on to find out!

Graphic novel cover art for ‘Polar’

Plot

When a notorious hitman reaches retirement, the company he works for sets him up in the hopes of reclaiming their lost profits. Little do they know that they’re about to mess with the wrong assassin. The Black Kaiser is back in business, and this time, it’s personal.

Review

Now to be fair, Polar is by no means as great and unexpected as John Wick was. This is, however, a fun, mindless adaptation of a graphic novel that is an entertaining watch on a streaming service. When movies like this typically get picked up by Netflix, there’s always that concerning question you have: “How was Netflix able to pick it up?” There are a few reasons that are easy to point out at first glance. A few members of the supporting cast over act, and that made me cringe. The pacing is a bit uneven. However, there are cool action sequences and a knockout cameo from Johnny Knoxville at the opening sequence.

Final Thoughts

I was blown away by the stylish action of the film. However, the main thing is the pacing drags like its buffering. When the shootouts do occur, they deliver. Mads is absolutely commanding in this role. Even if he doesn’t get the best dialogue, he tries his best with what’s given to him. Also, I wanted to highlight the fantastic cinematography. It’s astatic to watch.  I’ll highlight again how fantastic the action sequences were in this film. Overall, Polar may end up being uneven, but it’s better than most out there.

Did you get a chance to view Polar yet? If so what are your thoughts on it? Do you agree or disagree?

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