Don’t Attend This Die Hard Knockoff: An Unremarkable Addition to the Action Genre
In the ever-expanding world of action films, the Die Hard knockoff has become a curious subgenre, with a range of actors taking their turns in similar storylines. This time, G20, starring the incredibly talented Viola Davis, aims to tap into that tradition. However, does it rise to the occasion? Let’s dive into this misadventure that tries—yet ultimately fails—to carve its name in a long line of closet action gems.
An Attempt at Presidential Action
G20’s premise is deceptively intriguing, featuring President Danielle Sutton, played by Viola Davis, who finds herself backed against a wall during the G20 Economic Summit in South Africa. In a sea of corporate suits and diplomatic handshakes, chaos erupts when a terrorist named Rutledge (Antony Starr) takes world leaders hostage, creating an atmosphere thick with tension and suspense.
But let’s not sugarcoat it—despite Davis’s commanding presence, the script severely struggles to establish her as the formidable leader the story needs. Instead of clever dialogue that could elevate her character, she’s faced with an unrealistic portrayal of journalists, depicted as caricatures that serve little purpose beyond being foil to her authority.
A Plot Lacking Depth
Davis‘s character is purportedly in her early term, grappling with challenging media relations while also dealing with a family under siege—including her husband Derek (played by Anthony Anderson), a rebellious daughter Serena (the charming Marsai Martin), and a nondescript son named Demetrius (Christopher Farrar). With her family members in peril, Sutton leans into her military background and partners with her trusted Secret Service agent Manny (Ramón Rodríguez) to take down the terrorist threat.
A Questionable Antihero
Interestingly enough, the villain of the film raises some compelling ethical questions. Rutledge leverages deep-fake videos to not only elevate his financial standing but to shake the political foundation worldwide. It’s a timely reflection on trust and manipulation in politics, but the movie doesn’t have the finesse or the depth to explore these ideas meaningfully.
Action Sequences That Fall Flat
The film attempts to showcase Davis in action sequences that should be thrilling but often land with a clunky thud. While one scene showcases Sutton changing from red heels to red sneakers—an amusing nod to classic action tropes—most of the action feels disjointed and poorly choreographed. Director Patricia Riggen seems to experiment with styles but fails to master them; the transitions are choppy, and the camera movements alarming—sometimes taking viewers out of the moment instead of placing them right in the turmoil.
Moments of Camp That Disappear Quickly
Just as moments of nostalgia and campy fun manifest—such as Rutledge’s sinister challenge, “Let’s dance, Madame President”—they swiftly lose momentum. It’s as if the film desperately wants to be revered like the iconic catchphrases of Die Hard, yet it lacks the punch in delivery.
An Underwhelming Experience
G20 isn’t just a forgettable addition to the streaming landscape; it sometimes feels like a half-hearted endeavor. Characters like VP Sutton (played by Clark Gregg) are painfully underutilized, offering generic reactions that make audiences wonder why they’re even present. This dilutes the already tepid stakes and leaves viewers questioning their investment in the narrative.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, G20 struggles to engage, offering little for audiences who hope for a riveting, action-packed thrill ride. Instead, it leaves many viewers feeling uninspired and unfulfilled. With a talented cast ready to deliver, it’s disappointing that the film fails to capitalize on its potential. If you’re seeking high-quality action with memorable moments, Don’t Attend This Die Hard Knockoff may be best avoided—like the pandemic-era content it strives to represent.
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