Oscar Shaw

Jan 09, 2026 Action · A lean 93 minutes that keeps moving without overstaying its welcome.
Mixed reception disappointment
4.6/10
IMDb
2.76/5
Letterboxd
🎬
6.8/10
TMDB
Rewatch
one and done
Attention
half watch ok
Phone-check
medium
Ages
feels dated

The brief

Michael Jai White brings his signature martial arts intensity to this straightforward revenge thriller that feels like a direct-to-video throwback from the early 2000s. Director R. Ellis Frazier keeps things moving at a decent clip, but the script leans heavily on worn cop drama tropes without much innovation or surprise. The action sequences deliver solid choreography when White is center stage, though the overall production feels budget-constrained in ways that occasionally show. Perfect for fans of Michael Jai White's previous work or anyone craving an uncomplicated action flick that doesn't pretend to be more than it is.

gritty revenge thriller direct-to-video nostalgia martial arts choreography worn cop drama tropes budget action straightforward vengeance early 2000s throwback

The verdict

If you're a Michael Jai White fan or enjoy straightforward action throwbacks that prioritize solid martial arts choreography over polish, this delivers exactly what it promises. If you need higher production values or fresh takes on the revenge thriller formula, the budget constraints and predictable cop drama tropes will likely disappoint.

Watch with

  • 👥 Action fans craving uncomplicated thrills
  • 👤 Michael Jai White completists
  • ⚠️ Those expecting big-budget production values

Heads up

  • Frequent martial arts and gunfight violence (frequent)
  • Death of police officer (backstory element) (moderate)
  • Revenge-driven vigilante justice (moderate)

Credits

Director
R. Ellis Frazier
Cast
Michael Jai White, Tyrese Gibson, Isaiah Washington, Andrew C. English Jr., Cecile Cubiló, Jeanette Josue, Hiro Ortiz
Official synopsis

After retiring from the police force, a relentless detective haunted by the tragic loss of his closest friend

The Double

Make a night of it
Poster for The Punisher: One Last Kill

Pair this with The Punisher: One Last Kill (2026)

Both feature retired law enforcement seeking violent vengeance and redemption.

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