Quan (Jackie Chan) seeks revenge after his daughter is killed during an act of Terrorism. Quan soon discovers the key to his revenge is a man named Liam Hennessy (Pierce Brosnan), a government official who may carry the hidden clues and identity of the terrorists who killed Quan’s daughter.

If you’re expecting a non-stop action ride due to the film’s leading stars, you’re in for a shock. The film would be better classed as a political thriller with some action. After all, action star Jackie Chan is the age of 63 in real life. 

It was amazing to see Jackie Chan give a strong dramatic performance rather than focusing on big jumps and swinging fists. Don’t get me wrong- when some action does appear in this film it’s very impressive to see Jackie Chan can still take a punch and move quickly. But even Piece Brosnon who has recently been involved in disappointing B grade films also gave a great performance and it feels like it’s been some time since we have seen something outstanding from this actor.  

While the acting of our leads is overall solid and fun to see, the film’s plot can raise any concerns or issues. We have a man who has no family, nothing to live for, just revenge. But the reason as to why he thinks someone knows the truth is never really explained and it feels like he is taking more of gamble or a huge risk. To make matters worse, after the loss of his own daughter, Quan (Jackie Chan) chooses to put pressure on certain people by making bombs and blowing things up in order to get revenge. For me, watching some of his actions appears simply crazy. Blowing up parts of a building which could possibly kill or hurt people further didn’t make Quan’s character likeable. And other moments like this also occur throughout the film’s duration. The film also likes to follow one character for a long duration and then change others to the other character just as the audience begins to invest in a character’s new situation. The pacing back and forth appears rather messy and poorly done. We also have a film where the most simple things are thought of and completed far too late. Quan is a man trying to grab someone’s attention and no one really questions Quan’s former life or professional history until halfway in the film- really?

Overall The Foreigner did show strong promise, with both Jackie Chan and Pierce Brosnan making a strong return in regards to acting and being part of a much bigger film budget. The biggest problems which did hurt this film is the plot details and pacing which also made it very challenging to even like these characters or even truly understand them or the situation surrounding them from time to time.

5.8/10

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Review Written by Peter Walkden