Nerdly » ‘Freelance’ DVD Review

03rd Jul2024

‘Freelance’ DVD Review

by Phil Wheat

Stars: John Cena, Alison Brie, Juan Pablo Raba, Christian Slater, Alice Eve, Marton Csokas, Sebastian Eslava | Written by Jacob Lentz | Directed by Pierre Morel

Freelance, the latest film from WWE star turned actor John Cena, delivers an engaging mix of action and comedy, elements that Cena has increasingly become known for. Directed by Pierre Morel, this film pairs Cena with Alison Brie in a fast-paced narrative that explores themes of survival and unexpected camaraderie.

In Freelance, Cena plays an ex-special forces operative who is lured out of retirement to protect a journalist (played by Alison Brie) on an assignment in a war-torn country. What begins as a seemingly straightforward protection detail quickly spirals into chaos as they find themselves embroiled in a political conspiracy, forcing them to rely on each other and their wits to stay alive.

Cena’s portrayal of a seasoned, yet somewhat jaded, operative showcases his growing versatility as an actor. His physicality naturally lends itself to the action scenes, which are robust and well-choreographed, but it’s his comedic timing and on-screen chemistry with Brie that truly elevate the film. This dynamic recalls his previous comedic successes in films like Blockers and Playing with Fire, where his knack for humor shone through.

Comparing Freelance to Cena’s earlier works, one can see a clear evolution in his acting prowess. In his initial foray into Hollywood with action-heavy roles like The Marine and 12 Rounds, Cena was typecast as the stoic, invincible hero. These roles capitalized on his WWE persona but offered little in terms of character depth. However, in more recent years, Cena has successfully branched out into comedy, showing a surprising flair for humor. Films like 2015s Trainwreck and Daddy’s Home 2 allowed him to break free from the action hero mold, revealing a more playful and self-deprecating side. Freelance strikes a balance between these two facets of his career, integrating the intense action of his early roles with the comedic elements of his more recent films.

Pierre Morel, known for his work on Taken, brings a similar intensity to Freelance. The film is tightly paced, with suspenseful action sequences interspersed with moments of levity. This blend keeps the audience engaged without feeling overwhelmed by the nonstop action. Morel’s direction ensures that both Cena and Brie have ample opportunity to shine, making the film feel well-rounded.

Alison Brie complements Cena perfectly, bringing her own brand of wit and charm to the film. Their interactions are the heart of the movie, providing a refreshing contrast to the high-stakes action. The supporting cast, including a mix of local actors, adds authenticity and depth to the narrative, grounding the more outlandish elements in a relatable reality.

Freelance is a solid entry in John Cena’s filmography, highlighting his growth as an actor capable of handling both action and comedy with equal finesse. While it may not reach the emotional depths of some of his dramatic efforts, it is an entertaining film that plays to his strengths. For fans of Cena’s previous work, particularly those who enjoyed his comedic roles, Freelance offers a fun and thrilling ride that underscores his versatility and enduring appeal in Hollywood.