FALCON RISING

Cinemavixion Review

Ernie Barbarash delivers a gritty action-thriller with "Falcon Rising," a film that plunges viewers into the dark underbelly of Brazil's slums. Michael Jai White embodies John "Falcon" Chapman, a former marine haunted by his past and driven by a fierce need for retribution after his sister's brutal assault. The narrative expertly weaves themes of post-traumatic stress disorder with a relentless pursuit of justice against a formidable yakuza outfit. White's performance is a compelling blend of raw physicality and emotional depth, anchoring the film's intense action sequences. While the film received a mixed critical reception, with a 43% score on Rotten Tomatoes, its straightforward, no-nonsense approach to revenge and its exploration of Chapman's internal struggles offer a satisfying, albeit dark, cinematic experience for fans of the genre. The film's effective portrayal of its urban setting adds to its immersive quality.