Project Power: A High-Octane Ride with Potential for More

Project Power, a 2020 sci-fi action film from Netflix, boasts an intriguing premise: a mysterious pill granting temporary, unpredictable superpowers floods the streets of New Orleans. What follows is a frenetic chase as a former soldier (Jamie Foxx), a cop with a hidden agenda (Joseph Gordon-Levitt), and a teenage dealer with a secret (Dominique Fishback) team up to uncover the truth behind the drug.
The film's greatest strength lies in its concept. The idea of a power-granting pill with random effects injects a thrilling element of chaos. We see characters sprout bulletproof skin, turn invisible, or possess superhuman strength, all within a five-minute window. This uncertainty fuels the action sequences, keeping you on the edge of your seat as you anticipate the next unpredictable power manifestation.

The cast elevates the material. Jamie Foxx brings charisma and vulnerability to Art, the ex-soldier haunted by a past fueled by power. Joseph Gordon-Levitt portrays Detective Frank with a simmering intensity, hinting at a deeper motive beneath his gruff exterior. However, it's Dominique Fishback who steals the show. Her portrayal of Robin, the streetwise teen with a surprising connection to the drug's origin, is electrifying. Her sharp wit and emotional depth make her a standout character.

The chemistry between the leads is another highlight. The banter between Art and Robin adds a layer of humor and camaraderie that helps balance the film's darker moments. Even the tense dynamic between Art and Frank feels believable, fueled by mutual suspicion and a shared desperation to get to the bottom of the conspiracy.
Project Power isn't afraid to get stylish with its action. The directors, Henry Joost and Ariel Schulman, known for their work on the "Paranormal Activity" films, utilize frenetic camerawork and inventive editing to create a propulsive viewing experience. There's a particularly memorable scene shot entirely from the perspective of someone experiencing a power for the first time, capturing the exhilarating disorientation perfectly.

However, the film falters when it delves into its deeper themes. The potential for exploring the societal impact of readily available superpowers or the ethical implications of such a drug remains largely untapped. The plot, while engaging, feels formulaic at times, relying on well-worn tropes of hidden agendas and corporate greed. The ending, though not entirely predictable, leaves some loose threads hanging, suggesting a desire for a sequel that may never materialize.

Project Power is ultimately a fun, albeit flawed, action movie. The excellent cast, the thrilling concept of unpredictable superpowers, and the stylish action sequences make it a worthwhile watch, particularly for fans of the genre. However, those seeking a deeper exploration of the film's themes or a more nuanced narrative might be left wanting.

So, should you watch Project Power?

Absolutely! If you're looking for a high-octane thrill ride with a unique twist on the superhero genre, this film delivers. Just don't expect a thought-provoking masterpiece. Project Power is popcorn entertainment at its finest, a film that entertains without necessarily leaving a lasting impression.