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Canary Black

Canary Black (2024)

Oct 10, 2024 1h 43m Action Thriller Crime

Top level CIA agent Avery Graves is blackmailed by terrorists into betraying her own country to save her kidnapped husband. Cut off from her team, she turns to her underworld contacts to survive and help locate the coveted intelligence that the kidnappers want.

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Directed by Pierre Morel

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Pierre Morel
Writer
  • Matthew Kennedy
Producer
  • Sebastien Raybaud
  • John Zois
  • Renee Tab
  • Christopher Tuffin

Reviews

MovieGuys
4/10

I can't find much to recommend in Canary Black.

Following the by now well known DEI formula this is another girl boss flick that see's out heroine take on athletic men, twice her size and defeat them (must be the biology defying power of equity). That however, is not this flicks only shortcoming.

Its loaded down with absurd contrivances. Batting a triggered mines warhead out a window like a softball, without any harm befalling our pristine heroine. Add to that, fighting in high heels against opponents who, weirdly, typically attack one at a time and odd little too convenient things, such as having a knife strategically placed in a car to cut plastic ties (plastic hand cuff style restraints).

Acting is fine. I don't mind Kate Beckinsale and I have a lot of time for Ray Stevenson (who has sadly passed) and was fantastic in the series, Rome.

In summary, Canary Black operates on a sliding scale from basic to downright ridiculous, with little in between.

Nov 8, 2024

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Thematic Analysis

This high-octane Action/Thriller/Crime film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Canary Black distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.

Director Pierre Morel brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2024, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Canary Black took approximately 31 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 103 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 129 minutes long.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 12 months to complete.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.

Historical Context

  • In 2024, when this film is released:
  • Streaming platforms had largely replaced traditional cinema and television models.
  • Artificial intelligence was becoming increasingly integrated into daily life and creative industries.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Canary Black shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Canary Black subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like JFK and The Recruit explore similar territory, Canary Black stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: October 10, 2024
  • Runtime: 1h 43m
  • Revenue: $525,704

Where to Watch

Amazon Prime Video
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