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Angelina Jolie has a face made for cinema.
Its those green eyes, which can go from communicating anger to desire imperceptibly.
Its her famous pout, which can devastatingly unfurl vulgarities and compliments with equal aplomb.
But its more than just her beauty.
Yet, for all her screen presence, Jolie doesnt guarantee a good movie.
Its frustrating to see one of Hollywoods most fascinating stars often cast in lackluster work.
Which is why it was so thrilling to see her given a proper vehicle onscreen again.
(The film was also written by Charles Leavitt and Michael Koryta, based on the latters book).
ButThose Who Wish Me Deadsurprised me.
Most important, it proves once more why Jolie is a star.
On paper, the plot sounds a bit much, but bear with me.
The two bond as they evade the assassins, who start a massive fire to cause confusion.
Its pleasure comes through its striking visuals and the way they lend tension to the story.
(That the fire Hannah and Connor contend with is manmade isnt lost on me.)
Those Who Wish Me Deadis lean on characterization.
It grants us a window into the lives of these people but not the full story.
Even the smallest roles in the film feel lived in.
But its the major players that truly make the film a suspenseful ride.
Finn Little grants the film one of the best turns by a child actor Ive seen in a minute.
Hes blessedly not precocious.
He seems just like any kid, both curious and easily bruised.
Bernthal, once again, proves why hes one of the most exciting American actors working today.
Its Senghore, not Jolie, who has the most nail-biting, edge-of-your-seat action sequence.
Patrick and Jack break into her home when Ethan is not there.
They verbally and physically threaten her, pointing a hot poker at her face.
In another world, maybe Allison would be the lead of this story.
Thats how ripe her narrative is.
It was unexpectedly poignant to see a dark-skinned black woman who is so capable and loved.
Loving film is often thought of as an intellectual exercise.
Connor forces Hannah to change her perspective, and to choose life.
If this is the second (or third?)
act in Jolies career, Im more than game for the journey.
But I dont go to films for realism.
Like the great Bette Davis once said, Acting should be bigger than life.
Scripts should be bigger than life.
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