Braven review: Jason Momoa shines in disposable actioner
By Matt Conway
Braven doesn’t re-invent the action movie wheel, but it does give its charismatic star a chance to shine.
Jason Momoa is an actor who makes an instant impression with his long-locks and muscular stature. More importantly, Momoa has proven himself as a dynamic actor, with roles in TV shows like Game of Thrones and Frontier proving his capabilities. It’s a shame that he hasn’t the same success in film, as he is often relegated to minimal or lackluster roles (looking at you Justice League).
Giving Momoa a chance to shine as a lead actor is the latest actioner Braven. He plays Joe Braven, a family man trying to grapple with the fading health of his father. When he makes a routine visit to his vacation cabin, he gets wrapped up in a drug deal gone wrong, forcing him to use his skills to survive.
If you have seen an action movie before, you know what to expect from Braven. While the film doesn’t do anything particularly new with the genre, it does create a satisfying and technically accomplished diversion.
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Much of the film is put on the shoulders of Momoa, who gives easily his most naturalistic performance yet. Unlike most films that play-up his macho persona, he is asked to play more an everyman. He does a solid job, proving himself as a capable action star while nailing the film’s emotional beats. The performances all around are strong, as Stephen Lang and Jill Wagner also give solid performances.
Braven operates in its action movie formula, but does so effectively. The movie’s set-up, while predictable, is actually effective. Thomas Pa’a Sibbett’s screenplay is able to create a level of attachment to these characters, which makes the ensuing action even more engrossing. For once, the set-up to the action didn’t feel forced or contrived, which is a nice change of pace.
Once the action hits, director Lin Oeding shows he has some interesting tricks up his sleeve. Working with a low budget and in a condescend environment can be a detriment to some directors, but Oeding makes it work to his advantage. The setpieces themselves are fairly inventive, with Joe utilizing whatever is around him to protect his family. From elaborate uses of bear traps to throwing fire axes, there are a lot of gleefully fun moments that will satisfy action fans.
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Braven certainly isn’t perfect. Its workman-like screenplay doesn’t do the film any favors, and its ultimately fairly disposable. That being said, I had a surprisingly good time with Braven, as it’s a well-acted and executed action film that succeeds despite its formula.
Braven is now playing in select theaters.