Cast: Gal Gadot, Jamie Dornan, Alia Bhatt, Sophie Okonedo, Matthias Schweighöfer, Paul Ready, Jing Lusi, Archie Madekwe, Enzo Cilenti, Jon Kortajarena
Director: Tom Harper
Netflix ventures into the realm of Mission: Impossible with the pulse-pounding espionage drama, “Heart of Stone”. This film is tailored for Gal Gadot, who not only stars but also produces, allowing her to transition from superhero feats to a grounded mix of intellect, technological prowess, intuition, and impressive combat abilities. Although it surpasses Gadot’s previous action flick on the platform, “Red Notice”, it still somewhat echoes elements from other films. Nonetheless, it delivers effectively and is poised to attract a significant audience. The on-screen rapport between Gadot and Jamie Dornan only adds to its allure.
In “Heart of Stone”, the ultimate quantum device is termed “The Heart”. This formidable tool, using quantum computing can infiltrate any global network, control technology, disrupt systems, and even ground aircraft for a group of non-conformist Special Agents that do not belong to any country.
At its core, a cheerful tech expert known as Jack of Hearts (portrayed by Matthias Schweighöfer) operates it. His cinematic role involves gesturing in the air to produce intricate holographic displays of various videos and data, even predicting the precise odds of triumph or defeat for any mission. Imagine him as a futuristic version of Steve Kornacki, equipped with the latest tech advancements.
“The Heart” is the prized possession of the Charter, a covert organization comprising elite former intelligence agents. Disillusioned by the bureaucratic approach of their respective governments, they unite, leveraging advanced tech to counter global menaces.
The brainchild behind this imaginative concept of a secret group of altruists, working behind the scenes to avert global crises and save countless lives without seeking recognition? Credit goes to screenwriters Greg Rucka, known for his work on the acclaimed Netflix action thriller “The Old Guard”, and Allison Schroeder, the main scribe behind the widely-loved “Hidden Figures”.
Adding a layer of classic espionage drama, the Charter is led by four “Kings”, each symbolized by a unique card suit. The assertive King of Hearts, dubbed Nomad (Sophie Okonedo), takes center stage. However, the narrative also introduces her trio of counterparts: the Chinese tech genius Clubs (BD Wong), former Russian security chief Spades (Mark Ivanir), and the ex-deputy director of the CIA, Diamonds. The latter is portrayed by a renowned star in a brief yet memorable appearance, sporting a distinctive silver bob, reminiscent of an Otto Dix depiction of the Swing Out Sister lead singer.
The film kicks off with an intense sequence before the title credits roll, showcasing an MI6 team: field agents Parker (Dornan) and Yang (Jing Lusi), communications and transport specialist Bailey (Paul Ready), and the rookie tech officer Rachel Stone (Gadot). Their mission? To apprehend Europe’s top arms trafficker, Mulvaney (Enzo Cilenti), who’s been enticed by an exclusive gambling event at a casino nestled in the Italian Alps.
The high-stakes operation unfolds in the lavish resort, across snowy ski terrains, and within a cable car. However, things don’t go smoothly, especially when Rachel unveils a surprising set of skills, catching the audience off guard. The elite gamblers are placing bets on the casualties of an ongoing Navy SEALs mission, hinting that some criminals have deciphered U.S. military codes. Amidst this chaos, a mysterious figure emerges, later identified as the young Indian tech prodigy, Keya (Alia Bhatt), who seems to have tapped into MI6’s communication channels.
Post the Mulvaney mission, the British team chases Keya to Lisbon. Here, they face a dangerous ambush and a fierce chase by a hit squad through the historic streets of the Portuguese city. This chase reveals a shocking twist: not one, but two of the MI6 members harbor secrets. And in true international spy thriller fashion, the chief hitman is a stylish figure (Jon Kortajarena) with a sharp gaze, a platinum hairdo, fierce brows, and an affinity for speeding on his motorcycle. He’s reminiscent of Pom Klementieff’s role in Dead Reckoning.
Delving deeper into the plot would risk revealing two significant twists that surface quite early in the narrative. However, under the direction of Tom Harper, the movie doesn’t hold back on intense action sequences. The dedicated Charter agent, once out of the shadows, is determined to protect “The Heart”. But when this invaluable asset lands in the clutches of a nemesis, who has enlisted Keya’s expertise, the agent faces a series of life-threatening obstacles to reclaim it. As the story unfolds, Keya’s character is shown in a different light, revealing her underlying motives and her growing ethical concerns about her cold-blooded associate.
While the storyline offers a thrilling ride, it somewhat glosses over the antagonist’s deep-rooted reasons for wanting to seize “The Heart”, which Keya dubs “the world’s ultimate master key”. This antagonist is quick to exploit its power, causing widespread havoc, eliminating one “King” after the other. A brief backstory set against the backdrop of conflict-ridden Chechnya is introduced, hinting at a grudge against the Charter, but it feels somewhat rushed and underdeveloped.
For Netflix viewers who thrive on high-octane content, the film’s relentless pace will be a hit. The action seamlessly transitions from Italy to London, then Portugal, the deserts of Senegal, and finally to Iceland. Steven Price’s tension-filled soundtrack, combined with grandiose stunts and explosive sequences, ensures the audience remains on the edge of their seats.
In a classic twist, the central system of “The Heart” is stored in the most unreachable location imaginable: a hydrogen-powered airship named the Locker, hovering 80,000 feet above a secluded African region. This sets the stage for thrilling skydiving sequences and aerial stunts, including a fierce showdown atop the soaring Locker, offering a fresh take on the traditional fast-moving train scene. While the film doesn’t lean heavily into humor, there’s a charming moment where an old-fashioned rotary phone proves invaluable, adding a touch of nostalgic comedy amidst the advanced tech backdrop.
Gadot delivers a stellar performance, showcasing her prowess with graceful combat moves while still portraying a character that’s believably human and vulnerable. The camaraderie between Rachel and her MI6 colleagues adds depth to the narrative, and her mentor-like relationship with Keya is heartwarming. Notably, the film breaks the mold by centering on a female lead who isn’t tied down by a romantic subplot.
Dornan, on the other hand, subtly reveals the complex layers beneath his character’s laid-back exterior, a stark contrast to the loving husband and father figure he portrayed in “Belfast”. The magnetic presence of both Gadot and Dornan drives the movie forward. Okonedo brings a no-nonsense gravitas to her role as the firm yet compassionate Nomad, and the ensemble is further strengthened by commendable performances from Bhatt, Schweighöfer, Ready, and Lusi.
