The new Netflix film The Gray Man, starring Ryan Gosling and Chris Evans, is being compared to James Bond and Fast and Furious in early reactions online. The film, directed by Avengers: Endgame bosses Joe and Anthony Russo, stars Gosling as a CIA agent uncovering sensitive information. Evans’ villainous killer is then dispatched to hunt him down. Ana de Armas, Regé-Jean Page, Jessica Henwick, Billy Bob Thornton and Dhanush make up the rest of the cast.
“The Gray Man is two hours of James Bond meets Fast and Furious,” says the journalist Germain Lussier (opens in new tab). “Super thrilling action, massive scale and set pieces, solid confident performances, constant laughter, just loads of fun. Gosling and Evans reign, great supporting cast, it’s a little obvious but never boring.”
reporter Joey Morona (opens in new tab) also has high praise for Evans: “I think #TheGrayMan will get a lot of comparisons to the Bourne franchise, but the action sequences and fight scenes in the latest from @Russo_Brothers are the next level. Also, those movies never had a villain as Bat sh– nasty (and funny) as Chris Evans as Lloyd Hansen.”
“Netflix’s #TheGrayMan is a solid action thriller (the streamer’s best yet) with great performances from Gosling, Evans and de Armas,” says the journalist Jeff Ewing (opens in new tab). “The fight choreography and stunt work are excellent, to say the least. Overall a winner.”
critic Courtney Howard (opens in new tab) also likes the movie: “@Russo_Brothers #TheGrayMan has relentless, well-constructed action sequences. Battle for wits, bullets and brawn. Ryan Gosling and @ChrisEvans share excellent quick wits (and dirty facial hair!). Ana de Armas is badass and beautiful. Dhanush’s scenes are ruthless and sharp.”
Next Best Pictures Matt Neglia (opens in new tab) says: “THE GRAY MAN is a tactically aggressive assassin action film from the Russo Brothers. Ryan Gosling brings his usual stoic toughness against the wicked charm of Chris Evans. Not as impressive as the “Mission: Impossible” or “John Wick” movies, but still a powerful slice of popcorn entertainment.”
But not everyone is impressed by journalists Kyle Buchanan (opens in new tab) Writing: “THE GRAY MAN is Netflix’s emptiest starcraft yet. If DALL-E simulations cost $200 million, that’s exactly what they would produce.”
You don’t have to wait long to experience The Gray Man for yourself – the film launches on Netflix July 22, after a limited theatrical run starting July 15. In the meantime, fill up your watch list with our guide to the best Netflix movie streams out now.
