G20 (2025) – A Riveting Action Thriller Film Review
Directed by Patricia Riggen: A Star-Studded Cast
In G20, directed by the talented Patricia Riggen, we see a stellar performance from Viola Davis alongside a brilliant cast, including Anthony Anderson, Marsai Martin, Antony Starr, and Clark Gregg. This high-octane film promises to captivate audiences with its gripping storyline and thrilling action sequences.
Synopsis: A Battle Against Terrorism
In a desperate and suspenseful race against time, G20 follows the story of President Danielle Sutton, played compellingly by Viola Davis. As terrorists invade the G20 summit in South Africa, President Sutton is thrust into a role that demands not only her governing skills but also her military expertise. With her family, company, and the world at stake, she must confront the dangerous antagonist, Rutledge (Antony Starr), who seeks to manipulate global leaders for his own financial gain.
A President Worth Cheering For: Viola Davis Shines
Viola Davis’s portrayal of President Sutton is refreshingly powerful. In a cinematic landscape often controlled by traditional hero archetypes, G20 offers a heroine that feels increasingly relevant. However, the film itself struggles to elevate her performance above the generic script and predictable plot twists. While it does have its thrilling moments, G20 lacks the charisma and edge found in classics like Air Force One (1997) and Olympus Has Fallen (2013).
Direction and Cinematography: A Bland Execution
Patricia Riggen’s direction of G20 is competent but ultimately lacks a distinctive flair. Cinematographer Checco Varese’s work lends the film a TV-quality aesthetic, making it feel more like a made-for-television flick rather than a cinematic blockbuster. The action sequences—complete with elevator fights and car explosions—are executed with adequate energy but fail to reach the exhilarating heights one would expect from an action blockbuster.
The Plot’s Serious Approach to Absurd Circumstances
Although the premise suggests absurdity, much of the film approaches its storytelling with an overly sober tone. It isn’t until the third act when G20 begins to embrace its inherent silliness, leaving the audience yearning for more fun and vibrant storytelling earlier on.
Supporting Cast: Charisma and Performance
Antony Starr brings a distinct charisma to his role as the villain, Rutledge. Despite not being as iconic as his other characters, Starr injects the role with enough weight and personality to make it engaging. His interplay with Davis is one of the film’s bright spots, showcasing just how much strong performances can enliven a lackluster script.
Overall Impression: A Missed Opportunity
Despite the strong talent involved, G20 ultimately feels like a missed opportunity. With thrilling action and a timely theme, it is frustrating that the film does not reach its full potential. Instead of being an edge-of-your-seat experience, it often resorts to clichés and predictability, failing to deliver the excitement that audiences crave.
Conclusion: A Streaming-Only Film
In its current form, G20 feels better suited for streaming rather than the big screen. While fans of action-packed thrillers might find some moments worth a watch, it’s hard to shake the feeling that this movie is merely a familiar addition to a crowded genre. It’s a long way from memorable moments like Harrison Ford throwing bad guys out of planes.
Rating: ★★ / Movie: ★★★
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Daniel Rester is a freelance film critic and a proud member of the Hollywood Creative Alliance, holding a degree with a double major in Film/TV and Emerging Media and Digital Arts.
While G20 might not be the explosive action film we hoped for, Viola Davis continues to prove she can adapt and shine in any genre. Here’s hoping her next project better showcases her incredible talents!
