This movie is another item of my December Watchlist.
This movie starrs thee legend Danny Trejo (“Good Mourning”),
This movie was directed by Daniel Zirilli
This movie was released on December 2nd 2022. It was rated R for violence, language, drug use, gore and frightening imagery.
This movie is an Action/Crime/Thriller.
Onto the premise: When a retired Green Beret soldier is murdered by an international drug gang in London, four of his veteran SAS comrades set out to avenge him, dispensing their own brand of justice on the streets of London.
To be fully transparent Renegades caught my attention because of the nostalgic.
To my surprise this small film was very enjoyable. I found myself engaged from the first moment and, despite some shortcomings, entertained throughout.
The story is a simple one- A group of retired Special Forces brothers seek to avenge the murder of their commander, who happens to be played by Lee Majors. While their passions are inflamed as they go against a Drug Syndicate, lead by the brutal, Louis Mandylor, the must face the fact that they are no longer youthful, vigorous soldiers. They are aging civilians. This does not deter them from their mission, and thank goodness for that, because these issues really create the strength of the film.
Additionally, I couldn’t help but feel the influence of Jesse V. Johnson, one of the great independent action Directors of the modern era. In fact, Mandylor, Michael Pare, and the film’s star, Nick Moran, have all had significant roles in Johnson’s action films. Additionally, the use of violence and well timed humor all are reminiscent of Johnson’s work.
I think the real strength of Renegades is the chemistry of the main characters. Moran, Ian Ogilvy, Billy Murray, and Paul Barber make up the core of the geriatric vigilante band of brothers, that embark on this unlikely mission. They are very believable in their roles, including the action and the violence as it plays out throughout the climax of the film. Most significantly; despite their shortcomings, they are infinitely likable and fun to watch.
As for Louis Mandylor, he can always be expected to bring something compelling to the screen, and he always manages to make every scene he is in fun for the viewer to watch. I enjoyed him in this one very much.
The remainder of the cast, including Patsy Kensit as Majors’ daughter, Jeanine Nerissa Sothcott as a Scotland Yard Detective, and Danny Trejo as an intelligence officer contribute nicely to the production.
The film is low budget. This is evident, but not terminal in the fighting and explosive effects, and the minimalism of the sets. However, good movies are about good storytelling and acting and this movie more than makes up for its shortcomings in that regard.
Stay tuned for more reviews Renegades is good time. I recommend it highly.
Movie reviews with ceren 