source netflix
The new Netflix movie Apex, starring Charlize Theron, is a survival action film that blends action thrill and wilderness scenes. It also stars Kingsman's Taron Egerton as the movie's antagonist. It's a cat and mouse action thriller in the Australian wilderness.
The story is about Sasha (Charlize Theron), a skilled rock climber and adrenaline junkie. She caused the death of her husband during a dangerous climb. Having not learned her lesson (or maybe she's on a suicide mission), she goes on another dangerous solo adventure in an Australian wilderness. It's already a setting for a horror movie with a female adventurer alone in the woods. It's a miracle she survived her first night sleeping in her car unarmed near crazed male, drunk hunters. She soon got into real trouble when she encounters Ben (Taron Edgerton), a stranger who is later revealed to be a sadistic killer slash cannibal. Sasha is forced into an adventure for her life as Ben hunts her through the wilderness, using her climbing skills to stay alive.
Apex is like other survival movies. It's like Stallone's Cliffhanger, even the first scene where she caused the death of her husband. Its strength lies in the setting. The Australian wilderness setting enhances the sense of isolation and dread. Like in the first scene where the height, rain and falling rocks was a source of danger, it's like nature is a secondary antagonist.
However, the film's theme is not new. Aside from Cliffhanger, it also borrows from Vertical Limit, with similar tropes. The plot is predictable and the villain is somewhat undeveloped.
Charlize Theron is a great female action hero. She is physically strong and convincing. I liked the climbing and chase scenes that worked well in the Australian wilderness setting. On the other hand, the film’s biggest weakness is its lack of originality as I mentioned that it's similar to other survival movies. The villain is menacing but feels underdeveloped with the sudden heel turn from being nice and helpful.
Conclusion & Recommendation
Apex is a solid but unoriginal survival thriller. Charlize Theron is still impressive with her physical performances and the beautiful Australian wilderness. If you enjoy predictable action thrillers, Apex is worth watching.