MOVIE REVIEWS

By no means great or even that good, but as far as these direct-to-video flicks go, it was entertaining enough though pacing felt off and the two elements of suspense-thriller and mystery never quite gelled (could partially be due to the initial production was back in 2015 and shut down due to budgetary issues and back in production five years later). And while he was a one day, one location shoot, Mel Gibson seemed to be having a good time (one scene his character is supposed to be hammered, it wouldn't surprise me if he was a bit drunk). Also, Scott Eastwood might not have his father's charisma, but he was alright in this one. **2.75/5**

"Dylan" (Scott Eastwood) returns home to his estranged family on a remote island, following the death of his brother "Shaun". He is not exactly welcomed and is about to shove off when the sheriff (Tyrese Gibson) recognises him and he is detained. Lucky for all concerned, for next thing a group of mercenaries led by "Cole" (Kevin Durand) arrive on the island, dispose of the law enforcement, and hold the family hostage. What are they after in this unlikely place? Well, pretty soon we realise that "D" has plenty of ninja skills as he slowly whittles down the visitors whilst, with the help of the feisty "Linda" (Brenda Bazinet) and his dipsomaniac psychologist "Alderwood" (Mel Gibson) on the phone, he sets off to find what they are using ground radar to locate. This is not the worst action adventure I have watched this morning, and at times Eastwood mirrors some to his father's mannerisms exactly; but the whole thing just has a preposterous inevitability about it that is not made up for by this lacklustre cast, dialogue and a baddie who is not in the least intimidating (indeed, he almost made me wish for Neal McDonough - though only almost!). Gibson's sparing appearances are quite fun but Famke Janssen is hardly used at all and by the end it reminded me a little of "Bear Island" (1979) just without any jeopardy or snow.