PG Score: 8/10
Bullet Train was released in theaters on 8/5/22
Bullet Train is an action-packed thrill ride of humor, amazing choreographed fights, and just some outright brutal violence directed by David Leitch (Atomic Blonde). Brad Pitt (Fight Club) stars as Ladybug, an unfortunate assassin tasked with the simple job of grabbing a briefcase on the train and getting off said train soon after. Unfortunately for him, there is more to this easy job than he thought and he's on a collision course with opposing forces.
Big-Name Cameos
Bullet Train has a stellar collaborative cast; even the smallest of roles have a well known name behind it. The most prominent of this huge ensemble are Aaron Taylor-Johnson (Age of Ultron) as Tangerine and Brian Tyree Henry (Eternals) as his Thomas the Tank Engine-loving brother Lemon. Joey King (The Kissing Booth) as the Prince plays the unsuspecting-looking school girl to a tee, while Bad Bunny plays the ever-dangerous Wolf, who is out for vengeance in a brief-but-fun part.
Another short-but-impactful role goes to Zazie Beetz (Deadpool 2) as the Hornet. Hirojuki Sanada (The Last Samurai) as the Elder again shows his skills with a blade and Michael Shannon (Man of Steel) is the elusive and terrifying White Death. Fate, it appears, brings all these characters together as their stories end up intertwined. Not the type of film for standout acting performances, everyone does a solid job telling their story, moving the plot along, and making you either care for them or eager for their demise.
Storytelling Devices
Very similar to the vibe of Smoking Aces, Bullet Train brings together a bunch of different assassins all seemingly after the same thing. Leitch uses unique storytelling with each new character(s) introduced; we get a flashback of the events that led to them being hired to be on the train. A great soundtrack helps move the story forward and enhances the visceral fight scenes. It is a delight to watch Pitt's Ladybug deal with each new hiccup thrown his way while talking on the phone with his handler, Maria Beetle (Sandra Bullock), throughout the train ride. This adds even more levity to an already funny movie. This also helps the 126-minute run time fly by.
Fun and Worth Your Time
Bullet Train doesn't tread over any new tracks, but it doesn't need to. It is a fun movie filled with action, humor, and surprising story twists that have you entertained throughout. I say pick up some popcorn, put your seat back, kick up your feet, and enjoy. Definitely recommending you get a ticket for this ride.