Yes, MMA star Gina Carano can kick butt. But we knew that already, didn’t we? Acclaimed directing chameleon Steven Soderbergh frames Carano’s ample skills well in what is surely one of the most stylish, star-studded, globe-trotting rogue spy films in recent memory, but there’s not much at the heart of Haywire once all the standard mysteries are revealed.

In the movie, Carano plays Mallory, a private soldier who is the best in the business. But her handlers turn on her, set her up for a crime she didn’t commit, and try to take her out (obviously, a big mistake). On her own, Mallory sets out to unravel the plot against her, and exact revenge on everyone responsible.

Haywire unfolds with all the sleek energy of Soderbergh’s other major franchise, The Ocean’s Eleven movies. The similarities are most obvious in the retro, jazzy score that is often the only accompaniment to scenes of gratuitous violence- no coincidence, as both films were scored by David Holmes.

The supporting cast turns in some great small performances- the barely contained panic of Michael Douglas and Antonio Banderas‘ coded phone conversation is a lesson in understatement. Unfortunately, Carano just doesn’t rise to the occasion. She has potential to grow and relax in front of the camera, but even the idea of military professionalism couldn’t justify her flat tones and expression for 90 minutes.

Have you seen Haywire? What did you think?

Bookmark to: