Havoc Review : A non-stop action ride that’s fast, furious and flawed

Story: After a high-stakes drug deal goes wrong, detective Walker (Tom Hardy) is thrown into a brutal underworld filled with corruption and violence. His mission is to rescue the kidnapped son of a powerful politician (Forest Whitaker), and along the way, he uncovers a vast conspiracy involving both criminals and law enforcement. What follows is a chaotic journey through a city where every corner hides danger, betrayal, and an explosive confrontation.

Review: 'Havoc' is a film that doesn’t quite come together as a cohesive story, but when it comes to pure, unrelenting action, it delivers exactly what it promises. Directed by Gareth Evans, the film is unapologetically violent, and for those who appreciate the rhythm of well-executed combat and don’t mind the excess that comes with it, 'Havoc' is bound to satisfy. Like its protagonist, battered and driven forward by sheer force, the film doesn't care much for subtlety or depth but keeps pushing ahead with relentless energy.

Tom Hardy plays Walker, the weary detective at the heart of the story. While his character feels a bit thin, Hardy brings an intensity to the role that keeps you invested through the action-heavy scenes. Forest Whitaker, as the morally ambiguous politician, offers a solid performance, though his role is more about presence than substance. Jessie Mei Li and Timothy Olyphant also contribute but are largely sidelined by the film's focus on Walker's mission and the action set pieces.

The film’s pacing is erratic. The action scenes are undeniably the highlight—stylish, fast-paced, and expertly choreographed. Whether it’s a brutal fistfight in a cramped alley or a high-speed chase through a chaotic cityscape, Evans' direction keeps things engaging with sharp, close-quarters combat that leaves you breathless. The cinematography, with its sleek framing and swift cuts, amplifies the intensity of these moments. However, the narrative often stalls between action beats, with the film struggling to maintain a coherent flow during the slower, dialogue-heavy scenes.

One of the film’s biggest strengths is its commitment to the action genre. It's loud, it's violent, and it’s never afraid to go over the top. While some may find the excessiveness exhausting, for others, it’s part of the thrill. The background score, pounding and relentless, complements the chaotic pace, adding to the film’s all-consuming atmosphere.

'Havoc' is a film where the plot is secondary to the action. It’s the kind of movie you watch for the fight sequences and the adrenaline rush, not for intricate storytelling. In the end, 'Havoc' is far from perfect, but for fans of high-octane action, it delivers more than enough to keep you hooked. It’s battered, it’s messy, but like its lead character, it keeps fighting until the very end.