FALCON RISING

Cinemavixion Review

Ernie Barbarash's "Falcon Rising" plunges into the gritty underbelly of Brazil, offering a brutal, if somewhat familiar, tale of vengeance. Michael Jai White embodies John "Falcon" Chapman, an ex-marine wrestling with post-traumatic stress, who is galvanized into action when his sister (played by the formidable Laila Ali) is left for dead. The narrative skillfully navigates the treacherous landscape of Sao Paulo's slums, exposing a world rife with corruption, drug cartels, and human trafficking. While the film adheres to a conventional revenge thriller structure, its strength lies in White's compelling performance and the raw, visceral action sequences. The supporting cast, including Neal McDonough and Jimmy Navarro, adds depth to the morally ambiguous world Chapman inhabits. Despite a mixed critical reception, with Rotten Tomatoes noting 43% and Metacritic scoring 49/100, "Falcon Rising" delivers a solid dose of action and a gritty atmosphere that fans of the genre will appreciate. Its exploration of Chapman's internal struggles, coupled with the external chaos he confronts, makes for a watchable, albeit dark, cinematic experience.