Wanted (2008)

The critic gives the film an enthusiastic verdict, calling it an over-the-top action thriller with plenty of appeal. They single out its wildly inventive, computer-generated action sequences and jaw-dropping stunt work for praise.

Newman finds the film an entertaining, inventive action movie that works on its own terms. He particularly praises Bekmambetov’s escalating set-pieces and McAvoy’s convincing transformation into an action hero.

The critic calls it massively enjoyable popcorn entertainment and one of the freshest summer movies in years. They single out Bekmambetov’s imaginative, energetic action, especially the mountainous-bridge train crash.

McCarthy finds the film a relentless, inventive action spectacle that signals Bekmambetov’s arrival in Hollywood. He praises the striking visual style and cast, especially McAvoy’s transformation and Jolie’s tough, self-aware performance, while noting that some flourishes are gratuitous.

Phipps finds the film’s power fantasy repulsive, but says its execution makes it a considerable success. He praises Bekmambetov’s frenetic, coherent action and McAvoy’s portrayal of the protagonist’s transformation.

The page identifies this as John Hazelton’s review, but the paywall prevents access to the critic’s verdict. No specific praise or complaint is available in the readable text.

Schager finds the film’s thrills energetic but its story derivative and its climax less exhilarating than its opening. He praises Angelina Jolie’s magnetic, ferociously physical performance, while faulting the film for sidelining her in favor of Wesley’s daddy issues.

The review describes the film as a high-octane action adventure and gives it a positive three-star assessment. It singles out James McAvoy’s performance as particularly strong, while noting Angelina Jolie’s cool presence.

The review finds the film brainless, hyperactive pulp but admits its spectacular excess is entertaining. It praises the set pieces and camerawork, and notes James McAvoy brings a small measure of humanity.

The low rating signals a largely unfavorable verdict. The available description criticizes the action caper for seeming heavily indebted to The Matrix films.

Lane’s verdict on “Wanted” is largely negative, criticizing its relentlessly exaggerated style and gratuitous violence. He singles out Angelina Jolie’s performance as a bright spot, praising her cool, splendid presence.

The critic finds the film thoroughly satisfying and calls it standout action entertainment. They praise James McAvoy’s convincing transformation and Timur Bekmambetov’s visceral action sequences.

The critic is enthusiastically positive about the film’s gleefully over-the-top action, despite finding it mindless. They single out the imaginative gun battles and efficiently staged action sequences for praise.

Greenwood finds the film a successful, spectacular action movie, despite some elements that threaten to become silly. He singles out its audacious action, pounding soundtrack, and Angelina Jolie’s star-making performance.

Stephenson finds Wanted’s reckless, logic-defying action entertaining, though ultimately overindulgent and forgettable. He singles out the lavish stunts and Angelina Jolie’s striking screen presence for praise.

Pocock finds Wanted a fast, feel-good action film that largely works, though it is not fully cohesive. He praises McAvoy’s charismatic performance and the film’s thrilling action and memorable guitar riff.

Davis finds the film’s action entertaining but its characters’ flimsy reasoning undermines the plot. He especially praises Morgan Freeman, whose delivery makes even the film’s far-fetched explanations sound convincing.