Review of The Contractor (2022) by Jluis_001 — 03 Apr 2022

The Contractor is not a story that can boast originality. Neither in its narrative approach, nor in its main character, nor in its action style, so the only thing left is to hope that at least the quality of it won't be underwhelming. The Contractor has some efficient things going for it, but overall it's nothing more than a mid-scale action exercise.

Though on that scale its weight leans on something more solvent and entertaining than a mediocre and inoperative formula as is usually the case with most thrillers of this caliber destined for streaming.

Perhaps it doesn't end up being a hugely positive thing because there were more interesting things to explore in a story like this, such as the exploitation of ex-military personnel by the mercenary industry.

Plus the film completely shies away from making any kind of inflammatory political commentary.

The Contractor is comfortable with simply being an action flick to pass the time, but its weaknesses end up taking their toll in the end. It simply wasn't going to be able to escape from it. Chris Pine is believable in the lead role, but it doesn't give him any identity, and any other middling actor in the genre could have played this role.

I wouldn't say it's a loss for him, but you can't call it a gain for his resume either.