REVIEW: “Dominique” (2024)

As a lifelong action movie enthusiast who has seen more than my fair share of one-woman-armies, I can confidently say that Oksana Orlan’s performance in “Dominique” is nothing short of extraordinary. Michael S. Ojeda, once again, demonstrates his knack for crafting pulse-pounding action spectacles, this time with a ferocious energy that never lets up.


In “Dominique,” Oksana Orlan solidifies her status as an unstoppable force in action movies, joining forces once again with director Michael S. Ojeda for a heart-racing, adrenaline-fueled adventure. This dynamic duo previously collaborated on the 2018 horror thriller “The Russian Bride.” Their new project is an action masterpiece, characterized by Ojeda’s confident direction and propelled by Orlan’s mesmerizing charm and powerful presence.

In the hands of director Ojeda, “Dominique” breathes new life into a familiar narrative structure by infusing it with profound respect for its backdrop, exceptional acting, and relentless audacity. The storyline serves as the primary focus, but Ojeda carefully crafts relationships to heighten the tension, particularly in the film’s uncompromising climax.

REVIEW: “Dominique” (2024)

In this rephrased version: Orlan portrays Dominique, a tough Ukrainian hitman seeking an escape from her violent history. She aims to start fresh, hidden from the world in South America. However, during a flight over Colombia’s La Guajira desert, her plane is struck by gunfire from the De La Cruz cartel. After surviving the attack and dispatching some armed assailants, Orlan finds herself in the small town of San Lucas, where she encounters a friendly local named Julio (played by Sebastian Carvajal).

Julio has looked after his pregnant sister Paulina (Maria del Rosario) and her three children since her husband tragically died of heart attack. He’s also a San Lucas police officer working under the brutally sadistic Chief Santiago (Maurice Compte). Santiago is on the payroll of the cartel and has terrorized the city at the behest of the gang’s matriarch, Gabriela de la Cruz (Marcela Benjumea). Sickened by the department’s savagery, the upright Julio notifies internal affairs to help bring the murderous Santiago to justice.

Julio and his gracious family provide Dominique temporary housing until she finds transportation. This situation helps set up the characters and their situations, which is essential for the story. The family takes a liking to the tall and reserved “gringa,” Dominique. However, despite her attempts, Dominique grows fond of her generous hosts, leading to a confrontation with Santiago when he learns that Julio is undercover. He then targets the family as a result.

REVIEW: “Dominique” (2024)

should she flee before things escalate or stand her ground and protect this vulnerable family? The solution to this dilemma is something you likely already know.

In this performance, Orlan’s actions are dynamic and at times intense, displaying her powerful physique and unyielding determination. Her character often resembles the one-man-army stereotype, yet she offers a peek beneath Dominique’s tough facade, making her more than just a typical heroine. Overall, “Dominique” is an excellent platform for Orlan, showcasing her from her fierce beginning to her courageous conclusion. “Dominique” is now available on VOD.

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2024-10-20 23:56