It is a thriller with a cat-and-mouse dynamic. There is a sense that the film will be funny which is fueled by unexpected combativeness. The Killer’s Game is like a mediocre version of a Bourne movie. The combination of sad elements with the finale of a mission do not mix cohesively. It is a film that focuses on the personalities of its characters. The direction sets vast expectations with spy operations, but don’t expect to grasp the plot if you decide to see The Killer’s Game.

The main character is Joe Flood (played by Dave Bautista). Joebelieves he is fighting a life-threatening illness. Due to this serious health concern, he requests someone to detonate him. However, Joe is then informed that his disease is the wrong diagnosis. This means he must stop the operation that he has planted for himself. With the help of a friend named Maize (played by Sofia Boutella), time is of the essence as Joe needs torun or fight his enemies.  Joe’s boss Zvi (played by Ben Kingsley) also comes into the mix. Joe needs all the help he can get given that he authorized his own assassination request.

It is a thriller with a steady build-up. It brings lots of fun, gadgets, and international intrigue to the table. The Killer’sGame unfortunately does not know how to find enoughinvigorating aspects. Instead, it is a blur of action and mayhem which sadly does not sell.

There are a vast number of interesting characters though. The questionable ones range from Lovedahl (played by Terry Crews)to Radovan (played by Daniel Bernhardt) to Goyang (played by Lee Hoon). While they are interesting, they don’t add much quality or purpose because of their obviousness. For example, Crews’ absurd character name is too much. The movie is a retro-spy adventure where even the humorous lines fail to find their points of connection.

The international vibe of the film tends to be all over the place as well. The criminal operations and Joe’s missions jumpy as are most of the conflicts in the film which frequently seem to spiral out-of-control. I wish the rushed mayhem had more layers of value. Bautista is too light hearted to effectively play such a sad role. Luckily, his big heart does help play into the charming factor of The Killer’s Game.

Of course, this film is much too predictable. The writing seems overly anxious for to induce moments of pleasure. Sadly, the pleasure does not fit the spy format very well at all. The story ultimately comes down to the error and attempt at redemption. I wish the mission could have proven to be more enthralling.

What will Joe do? Will he find a different outcome? Why are there so many people in the mix? What international triumph is possible in The Killer’s Game? Barely any! Nevertheless, the film still has a few captivating moments featuring Joe and his desire for one last chance. Two out of four stars for The Killer’s Game.