#MovieReview: Plane takes B-movie action to the sky
Despite the ludicrous ending, cinematography and CGI that look like they were shot on a smartphone, Plane pretty much delivers what it says on the tin.
Plane is a truly absurd plane crash thriller that just about keeps up with its insane premise to make for an enjoyable ride.
The movie sees the latest in a series of gruff, one-man-to-save-the-day hero performances delivered by the king of B-movie action, Gerard Butler.
Let’s be clear, the in-film scenarios that Butler has found himself in across the last decade are truly ridiculous, but he is excellent at pitching his performances to the right level for what the movies demand of him.
It’s an underrated skill and why he has been sought after enough to make two movies a year – because they almost always outperform their low-rent budgets.
When tasked with fighting in hand-to-hand combat, the 53-year-old still looks every inch an action star, and his comic relief lines are delivered with a knowing wink.
Despite the ludicrous ending, cinematography and CGI that look like they were shot on a smartphone, Plane pretty much delivers what it says on the tin.
It is Flight meets The Raid, and despite being an echo of an echo thereof, holds itself together enough for an easy 90-minute watch.
Spoilers to follow
Plane follows commercial pilot Brodie Torrance (Butler), who is forced to fly through an electrical storm to save money for the dodgy airline.
An ex-RAF pilot, Torrance is able to miraculously crash land on an isolated island in the Philippines after the plane is struck by lightning.
But alas, the island is run by a well-armed rebel militia who are delighted to see their next big paycheck fall from the sky.
Torrance and Louis Gaspare (Mike Colter), a prisoner who was being extradited on the flight, have to form an unlikely duo to save the day.
Despite overwhelming odds stacked against them, our heroes dodge bullets and rockets on their way to finding a potential solution to leave the island.
Can they work in time to save the passengers and redeem their past transgressions?
You will have to watch to find out.
Plane is a mostly effective thriller with some solid action thrown in for good measure, but do not expect to see Butler holding an Oscar anytime soon.
Moderate your expectations and you will probably have a decent time.
Rated 18 for Violence and Language. | 2.5/5.
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