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The Gunman

27 March 2015English1h 55m
out of 10
Unfavorablemost critics didn't like it
Monk Score · 6 scored reviews · 2 not rated

A slow, muddled revenge thriller saved only in flashes by its action scenes.

Verdict tier Unfavorable, most critics didn't like it, on a scale of Unfavorable, Mixed, Recommended, Exceptional.

  • Praised: Intermittent action sequences
  • Criticised: Formulaic, muddled, slow plot

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Critic consensus

What 8 critics are saying

Critical consensus on The Gunman is largely negative, with most reviewers finding it a formulaic and muddled revenge thriller that fails to deliver on the promise of its director's previous work. The action sequences and fight scenes receive scattered acknowledgment across reviews as intermittent bright spots. However, critics broadly agree that the film suffers from a slow, dull plot and a confused attempt to mix social conscience with genre thrills. Supporting actor Javier Bardem is singled out as the sole performer bringing genuine personality to the screen, despite limited screen time.

How the 6 scores spread

2 not-rated reviews aren't plotted

Positive / mixed / negative reviews

Positive = 6.5/10 and up · negative = below 5/10

AI-generated summary of 8 critic reviews · may contain errors

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From the papers

Critic reviews (8)

Top critics first, then by score · not-rated last · updated

  1. Top critic

    IBNLive

    Film review ·

    It attempts to blend social conscience with a revenge-themed plot feels muddled...
  2. Top critic

    Mid-Day

    Film review ·

    There's nothing as such in the film that's commendable, save for Penn's physique at his age. But his character seems like he belongs in an 'Expendables' movie rather than the super serious drama in this movie.
  3. The Navhind Times

    Film review ·

    From the director of Taken, you would expect a taut thriller given the subject of the film, but Pierre Morel doesn't quite manage to pull this one off. Yes, there are a few thrills occasionally but as a cohesive film it barely makes the cut.
  4. Times Of India

    Film review ·

    On the plus side, the fight scenes are unsparing, offering gore galore in graphic detail. Therefore, you'll only want to see this is if the sound of gunfire is music to your ears.
  5. NowRunning

    Film review ·

    The Gunman closely follows the already tired I'll-find-you-and-I'll-kill-you formula to dismaying results. The only reason anyone should ever watch it is if you hate Liam Neeson, but love his films.
  6. BookMyShow

    Film review ·

    There are a few things in this world that are as painful as watching The Gunman. Getting your teeth and your fingernails pulled out simultaneously is what it really feels like. Avoid this movie like the plague. That said, there are a few good action sequences that are interesting. So if you don't mind a slow and dull plot and prefer a decent action flick, then this film might just be your cup of tea.
  7. Firstpost

    Film review ·

    Despite having a mere three scenes in The Gunman, Bardem is the only one in the film who brings some personality to the movie. He plays a swaying drunk, who always holds a glass full of delicious pain-relieving liquid. If you find yourself watching this film, you'd certainly need some of that stuff from his glass.

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Cast

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