Dangerous (2021) – A Slow-Burn Thriller with an Unconventional Action Hero
Director: David Hackl
Starring: Scott Eastwood, Mel Gibson, Kevin Durand, Tyrese Gibson, Famke Janssen
Genre: Action, Thriller, Crime
Plot Overview
Dangerous (2021) follows Dylan Forrester (Scott Eastwood), a reformed sociopath and ex-convict trying to live a quiet life under the supervision of his eccentric psychiatrist, played by Mel Gibson. Taking prescribed medication to suppress his violent tendencies, Dylan is attempting to stay out of trouble. However, when his brother mysteriously dies, he breaks his parole to attend the funeral on a remote island.
Things quickly spiral out of control when a group of armed mercenaries, led by the brutal Cole (Kevin Durand), arrives on the island searching for a hidden treasure. Forced to confront his past, Dylan must use his lethal skills to survive while trying to uncover the truth behind his brother’s death.
Action & Performances
Scott Eastwood delivers a solid yet understated performance as Dylan. Unlike your typical action hero, Dylan is a flawed and emotionally detached character, making him an unpredictable protagonist. His deadpan humor and internal struggle add some depth to the role, though at times his performance feels a bit one-note.
Kevin Durand is an effective villain, portraying Cole as a menacing and unhinged antagonist. He brings a chaotic energy that makes him stand out. Mel Gibson, while in a minor role, steals the scenes he’s in, delivering sharp and witty dialogue as Dylan’s therapist, adding a layer of dark humor to the film.
The action scenes, though well-choreographed, are spread out, making Dangerous feel more like a suspense thriller than a full-blown action movie. When the fights and shootouts happen, they are brutal and efficient, showcasing Eastwood’s physicality. However, the pacing of the film is uneven, with moments of slow dialogue that sometimes drag.
Direction & Atmosphere
David Hackl (Saw V) does a decent job balancing action and psychological elements, though the film struggles to fully commit to either. The isolated island setting adds a layer of tension, reinforcing the film’s survivalist theme. However, the story lacks originality, borrowing elements from better action-thrillers without adding much new.
The writing also feels inconsistent. While there are some entertaining moments, the dialogue can feel forced, and the plot lacks the depth needed to make the mystery compelling. The concept of a sociopathic anti-hero battling his violent instincts is interesting, but the film never fully explores its potential.
Final Verdict
Dangerous (2021) is a watchable but forgettable action-thriller. Scott Eastwood delivers a decent performance, Kevin Durand shines as the villain, and Mel Gibson adds some much-needed charisma. However, the film’s uneven pacing, generic plot, and lack of full-throttle action keep it from standing out in the genre. If you enjoy slow-burn thrillers with a mix of action and dark humor, Dangerous is worth a watch—but don’t expect anything groundbreaking.
🔥 Rating: 3/5 – Decent Thriller with a Few Standout Moments 🔥
