Angel Has Fallen (2019)
Trailer:
Angel Has Fallen (2019) is the third installment in the Fallen series, following Olympus Has Fallen (2013) and London Has Fallen (2016). Directed by Ric Roman Waugh, the film once again stars Gerard Butler as Mike Banning, the indomitable Secret Service agent who has saved the U.S. President from numerous threats. This time, however, the tables are turned, as Banning finds himself framed for an assassination attempt on President Allan Trumbull (Morgan Freeman) and must go on the run to clear his name.
Butler continues to embody the role of Mike Banning with a mix of rugged determination and vulnerability. In Angel Has Fallen, we see a more human side of Banning as he grapples with the physical and mental toll of his dangerous career. The film explores his struggles with injuries and PTSD, adding layers to a character typically known for his stoic, unyielding nature.
The plot kicks into high gear when a drone strike nearly kills the President, leaving Banning as the prime suspect in the eyes of the authorities. Forced to evade capture, Banning must uncover the real culprits behind the conspiracy, which involves shadowy figures from within the government and a private military contractor with a personal vendetta against him. The film’s narrative is packed with twists and turns, leading to a series of intense action sequences that are the hallmark of the franchise.
The dynamic between Banning and his estranged father, Clay (played by Nick Nolte), provides a surprising and refreshing element to the story. Their relationship adds a touch of humor and warmth, balancing the relentless pace of the action. Nolte’s portrayal of the grizzled, paranoid Vietnam veteran brings a new dimension to the film, as father and son team up against their pursuers.
Movie:
Angel Has Fallen delivers on the action front with explosive set pieces, including a high-octane car chase and a climactic battle at a remote cabin. The film’s pacing is relentless, keeping the audience engaged as Banning fights to protect the President and expose the conspiracy against him.
While the Fallen series may not be known for its subtlety, Angel Has Fallen stands out for its character-driven approach, focusing on Banning’s personal struggles and the costs of his unwavering loyalty to his duty. It’s a fitting continuation of the franchise, offering the adrenaline-pumping action fans expect, while also delving deeper into the psyche of its hero.
