When a Miserable Life Becomes an Epic of Curved Bullets: Review of 'Wanted'

Have you ever felt that your life is utterly miserable? If so, you'll relate to Wesley Gibson (James McAvoy), a sluggish office worker bullied by his boss, cheated on by his girlfriend, and betrayed by his best friend. But one day, his life turns around when he learns he is the son of a legendary assassin and is recruited into a secret brotherhood of assassins that teaches him to curve bullets! This is Wanted (2008), a surreal action film famous for its curved bullet scenes and non-stop thrills.

Plot Summary (No Spoilers)

Wesley Gibson is a 25-year-old man living a pathetic life, working in an office where his boss bullies him, having a promiscuous girlfriend, and lacking any purpose. One day, he meets Fox (Angelina Jolie), a seductive assassin who tells him he is the son of the world's greatest assassin and is being hunted by enemies. Wesley is taken to The Fraternity, led by Sloan (Morgan Freeman). There, he is trained to become a top assassin, able to curve bullets, run on walls, and react at superhuman speed. The Fraternity's mission is to kill people designated by the 'Loom of Fate' to maintain balance in the world. But as Wesley begins to question the Fraternity's goals, hidden truths gradually unfold.

Acting and Characters

James McAvoy brilliantly portrays Wesley, transforming from a pathetic, insecure loser into a ruthless, confident assassin. He naturally conveys the emotional shift. Angelina Jolie as Fox is both beautiful and fierce, making an impression every time she appears, especially in action scenes she executes fluidly. Morgan Freeman as Sloan, the Fraternity's leader, appears trustworthy and powerful, adding mystery and intimidation. Supporting actor Terence Stamp as Pekwarsky performs well in a seemingly honest but cunning role. However, some characters, like 'The Gunsmith' (Common), have too little screen time, lacking deep development.

Direction, Cinematography, and Music

Timur Bekmambetov, the talented Kazakh director, delivers a distinctive style with slow-motion visuals, crazy camera angles, and curved bullet gimmicks that become the film's trademark. Every action scene is creatively designed, intense, and surreal, such as curving bullets, running on moving cars, and fast-paced combat like a musical rhythm. Cinematography by Mitchell Amundsen uses dull, cool tones to depict a cruel, merciless world. Music by Danny Elfman has an exciting rhythm, enhancing emotions and excitement in every scene, especially the song 'The Little Things' performed by Callum McAuliffe, adding charm and memorability.

Editorial Analysis

Although Wanted is full of thrilling action and beautiful visuals, the story has several weaknesses. The concept of the 'Loom of Fate' determining who should die is quite fanciful and lacks solid logic. Wesley's character development is too rapid, from a loser to a top assassin in just a few days, reducing realism. Additionally, the film is filled with exaggerated violence and splattering blood, which may not appeal to those who prefer realistic action. However, in terms of entertainment, the film performs perfectly with its fast pace, creative action scenes, and standout performances, making it enjoyable and engaging despite not being perfect in storytelling.

Verdict

For those who enjoy surreal, non-stop action movies and don't mind unrealistic plots, Wanted is the perfect answer. It offers entertainment and beautiful visuals to enjoy. But if you want a film with logic and deep storytelling, skip this one.