In order to find yourself, sometimes you have to get lost.
Freelance tells the story of Mason Petit (John Cena), a former Army Ranger who has started a new life as a family man. However, with his days filled with minivans and desk work as a lawyer, he still feels as though he’s missing out on something. Things change though when an old army buddy recruits him to be a part of his private security team. Suddenly, Petit finds himself as the personal bodyguard for Claire Wellington (Allison Brie), an award-winning reporter who has secured an exclusive interview with South American dictator Juan Venegas (Juan Pablo Raba). But, when Venegas’ people attempt a violent coup, Petit, Wellington and Venegas find themselves in a struggle to survive in the jungle.
Directed by Pierre Morel, Freelance is a throwback film that taps into the energy and humour of 80s action flicks. Strangely, this is also another example of the recent rash of ‘stars in the jungle’ films that have appeared on screen. Whether it’s Clooney and Roberts in Ticket to Paradise or Tatum and Bullock in The Lost City, it feels like this style of romcom has come back in style. However, while Freelance is well cast and has an interesting premise, its writing simply doesn’t separate itself from the pack. Penned by Jacob Lentz, the film struggles to keep itself on track.
In some moments, the script feels energetic and fun. In others, it seems lost in the jungle.
Nevertheless, while the film is far from perfect, one can’t deny the charisma of its leads. In his ever-growing career, Cena continues to exhibit the type of self-effacing humor that made him a star in the world of professional wrestling. Whereas some in-ring performers have struggled to make the transition into acting, Cena is one of a new crop that seems to be able to translate their magnetism on screen. Although the script for Freelance doesn’t leave him with much to do, Cena’s natural charm is enough to keep the audience engaged. At the same time, Brie brings her own brand of humour and heart to Wellington that makes her a solid foil for Cena’s more outlandish character.
However, the greatest surprise may Raba as would-be President Venegas. Despite being less globally known than Cena and Brie, Raba steals most of the scenes from his co-stars. Although we are led to believe that his character is a ruthless dictator, he plays him with such personality that one cannot help but be taken in by his smile and wit.
Freelance also does take its big swings as well, especially with its exploration of modern political agendas. Without giving any spoilers, President Venegas is a man who may (or may not) have been unfairly portrayed by the media. In the case of Venegas, perspective on his rule depends entirely on that person’s agenda. Although the world sees him is a cruel dictator, his own people view him as someone who cares for their needs.
In Freelance, one man’s dictator is another man’s freedom fighter.
In some ways, this is also very much a film about rediscovering your passion. Having abandoned the military for a life as a lawyer, Petit is a man lacking in purpose. Struggling in his marriage and looking for answers, he wants to do the right thing but there’s a piece missing from his soul. At the same time, Wellington finds herself cast aside by the world of serious journalism, relegated to puff pieces about celebrities. She yearns to be taken seriously once again and dives headfirst into the jungle to make her meark. For both characters, this is an opportunity to re-examine and re-energize their careers and, more importantly, their lives. They both know they’re looking for something but they’re not entirely sure what it is at times.
Although the film is far from perfect, there is enough in Freelance for a night of escapist fun. With a silly premise and a runtime of only 90 minutes, the film is funny, furious, and rarely overstays it’s welcome. (And Cena and Bree are always delightful.) But, even so, it’s worth noting that the script sometimes gets lost in the jungle
Freelance is available in theatres on Friday, October 27th, 2023.
