The Saviors

Unfortunately we live in an age where a film like this truly holds up the mirror to our very present lives. Adam Scott and Danielle Deadwyler expertly take us down the windy road of xenophobia, cultural suspicion, and the overall paranoia that so many try to tell themselves they’re above. But I must say, the casting department really did a great job at adding another level of nuance to the film by casting the leads as an interracial couple. That right there, truly changed the landscape of how we viewed these characters and the actors really answered the call. Our leads began this film at odds over their failed marriage and ended up once again bonding due to a perceived exterior threat. 

That threat being a Middle Eastern siblings pair (Theo Rossi and Nazanin Boniadi) who could have been a lot less conspicuous with their mission. But hey, they were dealing with their own pressures! I do wish Boniadi’s character spoke in the film as it seemed like she had a lot of say. But Rossi did a great job with the heavy lifting on the sibling side. But I did find myself wanting a bit more from their perspective, especially after the twist is revealed. Oh and let’s not forget the joy that was the appearances of Greg Kinnear and Kate Berlant on screen. As well as the great cameo by Ron Perlman and Colleen Camp. 

Overall the film is very timely and engaging. The writer keeps you on your toes with all the reveals, twists, and amateur espionage. Does it have a message? Yes! But it doesn’t bang you over the head with it and I appreciate that. Will this film be the subject of some college kid’s thesis? Likely not but that’s ok. I found it to be a very enjoyable watch. This is a film I’d watch with the wife after the kids go to bed that may invoke a thoughtful conversation or just be something we both enjoyed. 

Rating: Large Popcorn!

~Justin Brown