Fast Charlie (2023)
Charlie Swift, a veteran hitman and fixer for a crime syndicate in Biloxi, becomes the sole survivor when a rival boss stages a brutal attack to seize control. Loyal to his aging mentor, Charlie teams up with Marcie Kramer, a sharp-witted taxidermist and ex-wife of one of his recent targets. Together, they embark on a deadly hunt to eliminate the new threat and settle the score.
Length: 1h30m
Genre: Action, Crime, Thriller
This Title is: Southern Noir
Cast
Pierce Brosnan, Morena Baccarin, James Caan, Gbenga Akinnagbe, Toby Huss
Parental Guidance
Maturity Rating: NR – Strong violence, bloody injury detail, and pervasive language.
FAQ
- Is Fast Charlie (2023) Based on a True Story?: No, it is based on the 2001 novel Gun Monkeys by Victor Gischler.
- Where was Fast Charlie (2023) filmed?: The primary shooting locations were in and around New Orleans, Louisiana.
- Who Wrote the Soundtrack?: Fil Eisler
Filmmaker Profile
Director Phillip Noyce is known for tight, intelligent thrillers like Clear and Present Danger and Salt. He brings a seasoned, professional touch to this production, blending high-stakes action with character-driven drama, establishing a strong sense of place in the American South.
Why It’s Worth Watching
This movie is a wonderfully stylish and fast-paced entry into the action-thriller space, anchored by the magnetic charisma of Pierce Brosnan. The picture successfully captures the vibe of a classic Southern crime story, featuring witty exchanges and unique, unexpected turns. Its sharp pacing and strong chemistry between the leads ensure a highly entertaining experience.
Main Character Deep Dive
Charlie Swift is portrayed as an aging, professional killer whose loyalty to his old-school boss is his defining trait, conflicting with his desire for a quiet life. Pierce Brosnan embodies Charlie with a mixture of world-weariness and charm, making his performance exceptional. He elevates the material, showing the emotional weight of a man trying to tie up a lifetime of messy loose ends while navigating a path toward genuine connection.
Unforgettable Quote
“I always thought my life would end like this, in some godforsaken place. I just never thought I’d care.”
Trivia
- This marked the final screen role for legendary actor James Caan, who passed away in July 2022.
- The original novel, Gun Monkeys, was published in 2001, over two decades before the movie was made.
- One of the more unique methods of assassination in the movie involves a blasting cap hidden inside a Boston cream donut.
Trailer
Stream Fast Charlie (2023) on:
Our Review
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I had an absolute blast watching this picture. It is a tremendously engaging production that delivers on its promise of old-school, witty crime action. Pierce Brosnan reminds us why he is one of the most charismatic performers working today, stepping into the role of Charlie Swift with effortless command. He has fantastic chemistry with Morena Baccarin, whose character, Marcie, is a genuine highlight—smart, capable, and providing the perfect foil to Charlie’s professional gruffness. The movie maintains a sharp and energetic pace, never slowing down as the duo works their way through the remnants of a shattered criminal empire in the American South. The look and feel of the production are top-notch, with the director giving the setting a palpable atmosphere. Seeing James Caan in his final screen role is also a treat. This movie works so well because it never takes itself too seriously while committing fully to the stylish mayhem. I highly recommend it. It’s pure, exhilarating fun.
Who Should Watch This?
Stream it if you enjoy modern action-thrillers with a strong Southern Noir edge, a sharp, humorous script, and watchable performances from veteran actors like Pierce Brosnan and Morena Baccarin.
