Take Cover – DVD / DIGITAL DOWNLOAD

As a lifelong fan of action films who’s seen more than his fair share of bullets flying and fists clashing, I can confidently say that ‘Take Cover‘ is a thrilling ride that doesn’t disappoint. Scott Adkins once again proves why he’s one of the best in the business, delivering high-octane action sequences with finesse.

From the renowned British martial arts expert Scott Adkins comes ‘Take Cover’, a title that mirrors the command given in military situations when imminent danger is detected, now serving as the instruction from the head of staff upon Meghan Markle’s return home following another damaging public relations excursion.

Adkins, also known as Sam Lorde, is a skilled sniper employed by a questionable organization, currently stationed on a building with his partner and spotter Ken (Jack Parr). They’re waiting for their next target, a wealthy gangster, who eventually arrives accompanied by his unrefined girlfriend. The operation initially goes smoothly, but there’s a hitch when the targets bodyguards react oddly, scattering instead of protecting him, which strains credibility given past incidents involving high-profile security details. Sam and Ken, seasoned professionals, seem to have overlooked an escape plan in this situation.

Instead of a secluded, low-key dwelling in a remote location, it’s actually a luxurious penthouse suite at a 5-star hotel that Tamara (Alice Eve) arranges for them. The concierge appears unusually keen to keep the curtains open, supposedly so they can appreciate the city view. In reality, this gives snipers in an adjacent tower block a clear line of sight. When Sam demands the curtains be closed and two attractive masseuses arrive as a gift from Tamara, it’s highly unlikely that Sam or Ken will have a peaceful or pleasant ending when gunfire erupts.

In this scene, the gunfire is skillfully choreographed to create an impressive impact. The sound design gives the bullets a life-like quality, making them seem like characters in their own right. As the main duo and the two unaware women scramble for cover, there’s also a confrontation between Sam and the hotel concierge. Meanwhile, bullets zigzag across the penthouse, adding to the intensity of the scene. This action-packed sequence is masterfully directed by Nick McKinless, who brings his stuntman experience from films such as Fast X, Justice League, Kingsman, Alien Covenant, and numerous others.

Similar to numerous successful low-budget ideas, this narrative primarily takes place within a single location, the penthouse, leaving it in such disarray that the cost of the mini bar would be insignificant compared to the damage. The film, Take Cover, essentially consists of progressively intense confrontations: man against man, man against snipers, and man against an entire team of heavily armed mercenaries. There are several entertaining scenes, one in particular set inside an elevator, which stands out as particularly engaging.

In a playful manner, Ken can be seen as a nuisance, yet Adkins’ talent shines through. It’s puzzling to cast Alice Eve with her face barely seen for most of her scenes, but perhaps it was necessary if it involved less talented actresses like Gemma Collins. However, this is Adkins’ film and once again, he demonstrates his exceptional ability as an action star. Despite sharing the screen with many renowned action stars and consistently making a lasting impact, his performance as the chubby martial arts gangster in John Wick 4 stands out among his best. It’s high time he gets a leading role that will undoubtedly propel him into the elite ranks of action stars.

Despite the predictability of the plot twist, “Take Cover” remarkably showcases once more that Scott Asdkin’s action hero abilities surpass critique and outshine many of his peers in the field.

Scott Adkins talks fear of heights, stunts &injuries in his new action film, ‘Take Cover’….

Here’s the Take Cover trailer…..

Take Cover is available on Digital Platforms and DVD 14 October.

2024-10-12 02:25

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