Review by Jon Donnis
"Air Force One Down" takes audiences on a turbulent journey aboard the iconic presidential aircraft, where young Secret Service agent Allison Miles, portrayed with tenacity by Katherine McNamara, finds herself thrust into a harrowing ordeal. As the plane embarks on a crucial mission to finalize an oil deal between the United States and the fictional Eastern European nation of Astovia, Allison's inaugural assignment becomes a baptism by fire when a paramilitary group led by a rogue general (played by Rade Serbedzija) stages a violent hijacking.
McNamara's portrayal of Allison Miles infuses the character with a captivating blend of toughness and sincerity, providing a compelling focal point amidst the chaos unfolding onboard. Her journey is not only one of physical prowess but also of emotional resilience as she grapples with the responsibility of protecting President Dallas Edwards (Ian Bohen), despite her personal reservations about him.
The film's strengths lie in its meticulously choreographed action sequences, which pit Allison against a relentless onslaught of adversaries as she fights tooth and nail to safeguard the President and thwart the hijackers' nefarious plans. The tension escalates with each pulse-pounding encounter, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.
However, "Air Force One Down" is not immune to the limitations imposed by its budget. While the set design effectively captures the claustrophobic confines of Air Force One, certain production aspects betray the film's financial constraints, occasionally detracting from its overall impact. Additionally, the dialogue, while serviceable, occasionally falls into predictable patterns and clichés.
Despite these shortcomings, "Air Force One Down" delivers a gratifying dose of adrenaline-fueled thrills and spills. Its narrative may not withstand rigorous scrutiny, but its unabashed commitment to pulse-pounding action ensures a gripping ride from start to finish.
In summary, "Air Force One Down" emerges as a worthy addition to the action genre, buoyed by Katherine McNamara's standout performance and a relentless pace that never lets up. While it may not reach the lofty heights of its big-budget counterparts, it more than compensates with its sheer entertainment value. With a generous score of 7 out of 10, it earns its stripes as a thrilling ride through the wild blue yonder.
Out now on Amazon at https://amzn.to/42FGJsO
And also on Apple TV at https://apple.co/49vlUT4
