Hidden Strike is a 2023 action film directed by Scott Waugh and starring John Cena and Jackie Chan. The film follows two former special forces soldiers who must escort a group of civilians along Baghdad’s “Highway of Death” to the safety of the Green Zone.
Ready for a classic action movie? Two stars face off, determined to save the world with kicks, explosions, and just the right amount of humor in Netflix’s latest film.
Synopsis
In the aftermath of the 2003 invasion of Iraq, two former special forces soldiers, Jake Carson (John Cena) and Xiang (Jackie Chan), are tasked with escorting a group of civilians along the Highway of Death to the safety of the Green Zone. The Highway of Death is a stretch of road that was infamously bombed by the US military during the war, and it is now a hotbed of violence and chaos.
Carson and Xiang must use all of their skills and experience to get the civilians to safety. They are pursued by a group of insurgents, and they must also contend with the dangers of the road itself. Along the way, they must learn to work together and trust each other if they are to succeed.
About the Film
Not particularly original, lacking philosophical and aesthetic breakthroughs, and an easy plot. . but who cares? We have two stars, each in their own element, facing off in a film destined to be a summer blockbuster, this time in streaming format. What should we expect? Exactly what it delivers: entertainment, action, and a touch of humor in a film that, true to the genre, captures the spirit of warrior camaraderie in a story of mercenaries and, ultimately, good people who want to save the world.
“Hidden Strike” shines – as expected – in its action sequences, especially when the talented Jackie Chan showcases his unparalleled martial arts and acrobatic skills that have brought him so much success. His comedic side, well-known to all, is also present here, complemented by the muscular John Cena, who has proven his comedic chops since leaving the WWE ring.
Together, they form a duo that, while not legendary, provides us with an entertaining time in a film that may have an abundance of action sequences but possesses a charm reminiscent of 80s movies that brought us so much joy and are now almost forgotten, creating a small black hole in our hearts threatened by AI.
Our Opinion
Relax and enjoy this film that, while not groundbreaking, offers entertainment with plenty of action and generous servings of well-executed nostalgic cinema.
No neorealism here, just a promise of good old-fashioned entertainment, scout’s honor, with a touch of Star Trek.
Where to Watch Hidden Strike
The Stars
Jackie Chan
Jackie Chan (Chinese: 成龍; born 7 April 1954), born Chan Kong-sang, is a Hong Kong actor, action choreographer, filmmaker, comedian, producer, martial artist, screenwriter, entrepreneur, singer and stunt performer. In his movies, he is known for his acrobatic fighting style, comic timing, use of improvised weapons, and innovative stunts. Jackie Chan has been acting since the 1970s and has appeared in over 100 films.
John Cena
John Felix Anthony Cena is an American professional wrestler, actor, and former rapper who is currently under contract with WWE. He is widely recognized as one of the most accomplished professional wrestlers in history, having achieved the same number of world championship reigns as Ric Flair. Originally from West Newbury, Massachusetts, Cena relocated to California in 1998 with the intention of pursuing a career as a bodybuilder. However, in 1999, he made the transition to professional wrestling and made his debut with Ultimate Pro Wrestling (UPW). Subsequently, in 2001, he signed with the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now known as WWE), initially being assigned to Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW).
