Gerard Butler returns to the screen with Kandahar (previously known as Mission Kandahar), his second action-packed film of the year, directed by Ric Roman Waugh. The story revolves around Tom Harris (played by Butler), an undercover CIA operative trapped in the dangerous territory of Afghanistan. When his true identity and mission are exposed, Tom must fight his way out, accompanied by his translator Mohammad “Mo” Doud (Negahban), with a race against time to reach the extraction point in Kandahar while being pursued by elite special forces. While Kandahar may not reach the heights of Butler’s or Waugh’s previous works, their involvement significantly elevates this serviceable and decent action thriller.
Butler brings depth to the character of Tom, going beyond the limitations of the screenplay and making audiences care for him in a way only a true action star can. Negahban’s performance as Mo is equally compelling, portraying a character with a tragic storyline. The chemistry between Butler and Negahban is strong, convincingly portraying their evolving friendship through heartfelt and surprisingly emotional scenes. Fimmel delivers a scene-stealing performance as Roman Chalmers, injecting the character with a likable charisma and cocky energy.
The action sequences are well-executed and entertaining, with a climactic ending that leaves a strong and exciting impression. However, Kandahar falls short in delivering the expected thrills, tension, and excitement that a film with this premise demands. The first act drags, becoming convoluted with excessive story beats and superfluous characters. While the film’s two-hour running time is manageable, it could have benefited from a tighter pace or a deeper exploration of the relationship between Tom and Mo.
Despite its flaws, Kandahar remains a decent action thriller, particularly for avid fans of the genre. While it does not revolutionize the action genre or offer anything groundbreaking, it provides an enjoyable experience. While not one of Gerard Butler’s standout films, it is still recommended for his fans to check out. Visit o2tv series for more!
