G20 Review
Is there anything Viola Davis can’t do? From emotionally charged dramas and superhero spectacles to gripping action thrillers, she continues to prove there are no boundaries to her talent. In G20, directed by Patricia Riggen, Davis steps into the role of U.S. President Danielle Sutton and delivers an incredible performance that anchors this fast-paced, politically charged thriller.
Set in Cape Town, South Africa, G20 follows President Sutton as she attends a global summit with other world leaders. Things take a dark turn when the summit is ambushed by an organized terrorist group led by the ruthless yet magnetic mastermind played by Antony Starr. With chaos unfolding and the world’s most powerful leaders in danger, President Sutton takes matters into her own hands, both to protect international stability and save her husband and two children, who have been caught in the crossfire.
The film blends political tension with pulse-pounding action, offering a refreshing take on the action-thriller genre. Riggen’s direction keeps the pacing tight and suspenseful, never allowing the energy to dip. The film is filled with impressively choreographed fight scenes, many of which feature Davis herself in the thick of the action. One especially gripping scene, set entirely inside an elevator, stands out for its claustrophobic intensity and beautiful execution. While watching the film, I couldn’t help but draw a comparison to the iconic elevator fight in Captain America: The Winter Soldier, and I mean that as a compliment, since that moment, in my opinion, was when the Marvel Cinematic Universe truly peaked.
WATCH OUT INTERVIEWS WITH G20 STAR DOUGLAS HODGE AND DIRECTOR PATRICIA RIGGEN HERE
While the movie taps into real-world political anxieties, it never feels like it’s preaching. Instead, G20 focuses on its characters, action, and stakes. As director Patricia Riggen noted in our interview, the film isn’t designed to send a message; it’s designed to thrill, and it succeeds on that front. It’s a political thriller that entertains first but doesn’t ignore the complexities of power and responsibility.
Antony Starr is excellent as the antagonist. Known for his chilling performance as Homelander in The Boys, Starr once again proves his ability to bring depth and unpredictability to villainous roles. This time, he offers a more calculated, grounded kind of menace, making him a formidable counterpart to Davis’ resolute president. What truly elevates the film is its lead, with Davis bringing her usual gravitas but also tapping into a physicality that feels both believable and empowering. Her portrayal of President Sutton is a refreshing shift from the trope of leaders hiding behind their security teams. Here, she fights, she leads, and she makes the tough calls.
In the end, G20 is a tightly crafted, action-driven film with just enough heart and humour to balance its intensity. With a standout performance from Davis and a capable ing cast, it’s an easy recommendation for anyone looking for a smart, adrenaline-fueled political thriller.
★★★
Out on Amazon Prime on April 10th / Viola Davis, Anthony Anderson, Ramón RodrÃguez, Antony Starr, Douglas Hodge, Sabrina Impacciatore / Dir: Patricia Riggen / Amazon MGM Studios / 15 / Amazon Prime Video
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