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Writer's pictureDan Brooks

An Entertaining Addition to the Action Genre: Heart of Stone (2023) Review

An intelligence operative for a shadowy global peacekeeping agency races to stop a hacker from stealing its most valuable and dangerous weapon.


Hey there, fellow movie enthusiasts! If you're looking for an action fix, "Heart of Stone" on Netflix might just scratch that itch. Directed by Tom Harper, this action thriller boasts a star-studded cast that includes Gal Gadot, Jamie Dornan, Sophie Okonedo, and Matthias Schweighöfer.


Before we dive in, take a moment to check out the trailer right here: Trailer. It sets the tone nicely for what's to come.


The plot revolves around Rachel Stone, played by Gal Gadot, an operative for a shadowy global peacekeeping agency. Her mission? To prevent a hacker from making off with their most prized possession, a supercomputer known as "The Heart." It's a decent premise that sets the stage for some action-packed moments.


One of the highlights of "Heart of Stone" is the action sequences. Gadot delivers solid action chops, and the stunts are well-choreographed. There's a memorable scene where she takes on a group of henchmen, showcasing her resourcefulness in combat. It's a satisfying display of female empowerment in action.


The film also revels in the espionage trope of double-crossings and double agents, adding layers of suspense and intrigue. You'll find yourself guessing who's playing on which team until the very end. It's a formula that works, even if it's not the most innovative.


Now, let's address "The Heart." This supercomputer, capable of hacking anything, is secured about as well as a public library. It's a plot hole that you'll have to suspend your disbelief for, as the story demands it.


There are moments when the odds in the fight scenes border on the improbable. One person taking out multiple henchmen stretches the boundaries of realism, but it's par for the course in action flicks. After all, it's entertainment, not a documentary.


What's missing from "Heart of Stone" is a deeper exploration of how "The Heart" came into the agency's possession. A bit of backstory could have added more depth to the plot, but alas, it's a missed opportunity.


A pleasant surprise for fans is Glenn Close's cameo appearance, albeit a brief one. It's a nod to the star's presence in the film and adds a touch of extra star power.


As for its popularity on Netflix, "Heart of Stone" hit the streaming platform on August 11, 2023, and quickly rose to the number one spot on the Netflix English-language list within its first two days, racking up 33.1 million views. It may not be groundbreaking, but it's certainly found its audience.


In summary, "Heart of Stone" doesn't reinvent the wheel in the action genre, but it's a satisfying addition. It offers plenty of action, intrigue, and a solid performance from its cast. On a scale of 1 to 10, I'd give it a respectable 7.6. It's worth a watch if you're in the mood for some action-packed entertainment.

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