Kerry Washington & Omar Sy’s Epic Shootout in ‘Shadow Force’: Who Wins Mother’s Day?

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Omar Sy, known as France’s equivalent of Jamie Foxx, captured hearts worldwide with his performance in Netflix’s Lupin. Given this popularity, it seems fitting to team him up with a top-tier Hollywood actress for an action movie. Unfortunately, the promotional poster for Shadow Force doesn’t quite reflect the film, which was moved to a Mother’s Day release due to its relatable parental themes. Fortunately, Kerry Washington, who showcased her charm in ABC’s Scandal, plays the main female character opposite Sy in this movie.

In a fresh take from director Joe Carnahan (“Smokin’ Aces”, “Copshop”), Washington and Sy shine as fiercely protective parents in Lionsgate’s latest action flick, “Shadow Force”. This adrenaline-pumping ride is best enjoyed on the big screen. As a unique tribute to motherhood this holiday season, it certainly delivers. However, its heartfelt family moments are somewhat overshadowed by the frequent gunfire and graphic violence that warrant an R rating.

Dads Stepping Up

As Mother’s Day nears, many moms will passionately encourage dads to step up and share responsibilities. This theme is beautifully portrayed in the movie “Shadow Force“, where life-or-death situations compel elite assassin Isaac (Sy) to single-handedly raise his son Ky (Jahleel Kamara). Years ago, Isaac’s partner-in-crime and wife Kyrah (Washington) was forced to go underground, leaving them behind – not because of self-interest, but to ensure their survival. Their employer at the time, Jack (Mark Strong), had become enraged when they dared to break the rules by having a family within the “Shadow Force” organization. Consequently, bounties were placed on their heads, demonstrating the harsh consequences of defying the rules.

After Kyrah vanished, it left their son under Isaac’s care. Sy, the father, seems perfectly suited for his role, making fatherhood appear effortless as we follow their daily lives in the film’s opening sequence. However, trouble arises when a bank heist unexpectedly transpires on the same day Isaac and Ky are present. Given his expertise in hand-to-hand combat, Isaac suggests Ky close his eyes and ears while he takes care of the situation. Remarkably, Isaac, who has difficulty hearing, removes his hearing aids before disarming the robbers, using the quietness to execute his deadly moves with finesse. This aspect of his character is subtly introduced but could have had a more impactful resolution in the film’s climax. Regrettably, it was an opportunity missed, but such is the nature of creating an action movie that inevitably succumbs to common storyline tropes.

In the contemporary United States setting of Shadow Force, the bank that Isaac saves is equipped with security cameras. When news spreads about his heroic actions, his face becomes widely recognized. This is how his former employer learns of Isaac’s location, prompting them to dispatch a group of skilled assassins in pursuit, offering a $25 million reward for his capture. However, Isaac isn’t the only one seeking him – his estranged wife Kyrah emerges from hiding to reconnect with their family. A poignant moment ensues as she witnesses how much their son has grown since their last meeting. But the reunion is brief, as they both realize that it’s just a matter of time before Jack’s henchmen find them.

Kyrah reaches out to a CIA contact, whom she affectionately calls “Auntie” (Da’Vine Joy Randolph, making her action movie debut), for assistance. Alongside her partner “Unc” (Method Man), Auntie helps Kyrah in their joint efforts against Jack. The story culminates in a confrontation between Kyrah and Isaac, and their ruthless former boss Jack, who shows no mercy even in the presence of a young boy.

Mom or Dad: Who’s the Better Shot?

Engaging banter between characters Washington and Sy adds charm to the action-packed movie Shadow Force. A humorous running joke occurs as character Kyrah frequently teases Isaac about his shooting skills, reminding him she’s always been superior. Washington delivers a convincing performance that adds depth to her character, even in tense scenes such as when she casually secures Kyrah into the trunk of their high-performance vehicle before a thrilling car chase (the standout action sequence that Lionsgate hopes will spark online excitement). Throughout this intense pursuit, Isaac speeds dangerously to outmaneuver assassins, while Kyrah relentlessly shoots to repel them.

As a film enthusiast, I have to admit that despite the captivating moments throughout the movie, the predictable conclusions in the third act somehow dulled the impact. The climactic confrontations seemed to lack the magic they should have had, perhaps because the extraordinary heroics of Washington and Sy had begun to fade by then. Yet, their undeniable charm is still enough to draw viewers in during this Mother’s Day weekend. And at its core, the selfless act driven by family ties remains a heartwarming theme worth experiencing.

From Lionsgate, Shadow Force will be released in theaters on Friday.

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2025-05-09 04:12