In “The Bricklayer,” a high-stakes thriller unfolds as former CIA operative turned Chicago bricklayer, Vail, is pulled back into the world of espionage by the FBI to confront a criminal group demanding escalating ransom payments. The narrative weaves through intense action and complex character dynamics, particularly focusing on Vail’s struggle with trust and loyalty within the murky realms of international espionage. As the plot thickens, Vail faces moral dilemmas and life-threatening situations that push his skills to the limit, culminating in a gripping climax that tests his resolve and principles.
Length: 1h 50m
Genre: Action, Thriller
This Title is: Intense, Suspenseful
The Bricklayer is New on Apple TV in Canada!
Trailer
Cast
- Aaron Eckhart as Vail
- Nina Dobrev as Kate
- Clifton Collins Jr. as Radek
Parental Guidance
Maturity Rating: R
For strong violence, and language
Trivia
- The film was originally announced in 2011 with Gerard Butler set to star.
- Principal photography took place in Thessaloniki, Greece, and Bulgaria.
- The film is based on the 2010 novel of the same name by Noah Boyd.
Our Review
- Quality:
- Acting:
- Storyline:
- Visuals:
- Entertainment:
“The Bricklayer” crafts an engaging blend of suspense and action, delivering a performance-driven narrative that captivates and entertains. Aaron Eckhart’s portrayal of Vail is both nuanced and compelling, anchoring the film’s high stakes with a grounded performance. Nina Dobrev and the supporting cast offer solid contributions, elevating the interpersonal dynamics and tension. The storyline, while occasionally treading familiar ground, manages to hold interest through well-paced developments and strategic twists.
Visually, the film is a testament to Renny Harlin’s adept direction, with sequences that are both aesthetically pleasing and functionally coherent. The action scenes stand out for their choreography and execution, contributing significantly to the movie’s entertainment value. However, the plot’s predictability and some dialogue moments lean towards cliché, detracting from the overall originality. Despite these shortcomings, “The Bricklayer” succeeds in providing a fun and thrilling ride, making it a solid addition to the action genre. Its reception reflects a mixed to positive consensus, appreciating the film’s strengths while acknowledging its formulaic elements.
Critic Scores
The Bricklayer has received a mixed positive review by the critics.
