Added to Prime Video on Tuesday, Jan 2, 2024 “Payback” is a gritty crime thriller about a criminal, Porter, who is betrayed by his wife and partner after a successful heist. Left for dead, Porter survives and embarks on a relentless quest for revenge and his share of the stolen money. The film showcases Porter’s unwavering determination as he navigates the criminal underworld, facing both the mob and corrupt elements within it. His journey is marked by deception, brutality, and unexpected alliances, all driven by his single-minded goal of getting back what he believes is rightfully his. The narrative is intense and dark, with a focus on the antihero’s uncompromising pursuit of justice on his terms.
Length: 1h 40m
Genre: Action, Crime, Drama
This Title is: Dark and Suspenseful
“Payback” IS STREAMING TODAY ON Prime Video IN CANADA!
Trailer
Cast
- Mel Gibson as Porter
- Gregg Henry as Val Resnick
- Maria Bello as Rosie
Parental Guidance
Maturity Rating: R (for strong violence, language, and some sexual content)
Content warnings include intense violence, explicit language, and scenes of a sexual nature.
Trivia
- The film is based on the book “The Hunter” by Richard Stark.
- Director Brian Helgeland was replaced after he completed the movie, and significant reshoots were done.
- Mel Gibson’s character, Porter, only has his first name mentioned in the film.
Our Review
“Payback” stands out as a hard-boiled crime thriller that harks back to the classic noir films. Mel Gibson delivers a compelling performance as Porter, a character who blends moral ambiguity with a raw sense of justice. The film’s tone is unapologetically dark, with a narrative that is both tight and engaging. The direction effectively captures the bleakness of the criminal world, and the cinematography adds to the gritty atmosphere. While the violence is graphic, it serves the story’s intensity and Porter’s rugged character. “Payback” is a memorable addition to the genre, offering a mix of suspense, action, and a distinctively stark portrayal of revenge.
Critic Scores
Critic Scores aggregate ratings from IMDb, Rotten Tomatoes, and Metacritic. (Click on any score for a detailed review.)
