Viola Davis Shines in the Political Thriller “G20”
In the **action-packed political thriller** G20, Viola Davis steps into the shoes of an iconic hero, Danielle Sutton, the **first Black woman president of the United States**. As a **veteran and dedicated mother of two,** Sutton is faced not only with her political duties but also the hurdles of family life. The film opens with a tense confrontation between Sutton and her rebellious 17-year-old daughter, Serena, played by Marsai Martin, who has just pulled a stunt by sneaking out for a night of fun in Georgetown.
Setting the Stage: The Political Landscape
As Sutton grapples with her daughter’s antics, the narrative unfolds against a backdrop that feels surprisingly prescient. Directed by Patricia Riggen and debuting on **April 10 on Prime Video**, G20 captures a moment when a woman of color in the Oval Office was seen as an inevitable progression in U.S. politics. However, as Sutton navigates the pressures of her role, she is soon swept into an explosive international crisis.
G20
The Bottom Line
**Slow to start, but Davis kicks it into gear.**
Release date: April 10 (Prime Video)
Cast: Viola Davis, Anthony Anderson, Marsai Martin, Ramón Rodríguez, Douglas Hodge, Elizabeth Marvel
Director: Patricia Riggen
Screenwriters: Caitlin Parrish, Erica Weiss, Logan Miller, Noah Miller
1 hour 48 minutes
The Plot Thickens: A Family in Peril
The film’s pacing may take time to find its rhythm, yet the story soon transforms into an exhilarating **action flick** once the characters and conflicts are clearly defined. In interviews, Viola Davis has expressed her desire to star in something widely appealing, and that ambition shines through. She embodies the kind of **action hero** typically portrayed by male actors, leading the charge in a narrative reminiscent of the classic Air Force One.
Despite **contrived plot elements**, her portrayal anchors the film. From cleverly choreographed stunts to a cast of supporting characters that add depth, Davis’ energy drives the narrative forward. After a reporter raises doubts about her capability to protect the nation if she can’t even manage her daughter, Sutton decides to take her family to the G20 summit in **Cape Town, South Africa**, hoping to demonstrate her leadership on the global stage.
Global Conflict: The Stakes of the G20 Summit
This pivotal conference holds great importance for Sutton, who aims to rally support for micro-loans to African farmers, potentially ending world hunger. However, her mission faces skepticism and opposition from powerful figures, including British Prime Minister Oliver Everett (Douglas Hodge) and IMF leader Elena Romano (portrayed by the talented Sabrina Impacciatore from The White Lotus).
A Hostage Crisis Unfolds
The atmosphere shifts dramatically when terrorist Rutledge (Antony Starr), a former U.S. army officer, and his band of **anarchist mercenaries** seize the summit’s conference room, taking world leaders hostage. Their ambitions are fueled by a mix of **cryptocurrency motivations** and ideals that challenge the status quo, making their intentions both intriguing and dangerous.
As chaos erupts, Sutton and her security detail manage to escape the initial peril, but danger looms ever closer as they strive to rescue their family and colleagues. The confined hotel setting heightens the tension and keeps viewers on the edge of their seats as the action unfolds over a single, gripping night.
Davis Delivers: A Heroine for the Ages
With each twist and turn, Davis showcases her talent, transforming from a frantic mother into a formidable force against her captors. **Her duality**—balancing vulnerability with unwavering strength—fuels the film’s heart. As she faces off against her captors, it’s clear that Davis embraces every aspect of this role, making the outlandish parts of the story easier to overlook.
In conclusion, while G20 has its flaws—primarily in plot coherence—Viola Davis’ bold performance and the film’s thrilling action sequences make it a captivating watch for fans of high-stakes drama and political intrigue. As the credits roll, audiences will likely find themselves riveted by the audacious blend of chaos and heroism, proving that sometimes, **the heart of the story** lies in its lead.