You know that feeling when you start a movie at night thinking, “Okay, just one quick watch before bed,” and then suddenly you’re gripping the sheets like you’re the one hiding? Lol, best believe that was me while watching this film. I actually didn’t know what to really expect at first because the intro to the movie wasn’t giving away its actual content but I decided to trust it considering the fact that Jason Momoa was the protagonist and of course the poster gave off its good setting so I said why not? What could possibly go wrong?
Jason Momoa plays Joe Braven. He’s a hardworking logger and devoted family man living somewhere quiet and icy. He just wants peace, a little time with his wife (Jill Wagner) and daughter, and to care for his father (Stephen Lang), who’s battling memory loss. But, as movie fate would have it, things take a sharp turn when a stash of drugs is discovered at their remote mountain cabin. Before they can even process what’s happening, a group of armed traffickers show up and from there, it’s a brutal fight for survival.
Now, let me tell you something, this movie is simple in plot but surprisingly strong in execution. There’s no overcomplicated setup, no unnecessary subplots; it’s pure, raw survival. Momoa is excellent here, not just as the action guy we’re used to, but as a man terrified of losing his family and willing to do anything to protect them. The chemistry between him and Stephen Lang as father and son is beautiful, tough love wrapped in loyalty and quiet heartbreak.
The setting also deserves its flowers. Those snow-covered mountains? They don’t just look stunning, they trap you. The isolation, the cold, the silence between gunshots all adds to delivering that claustrophobic tension. And when the action starts, it’s gritty and very personal. You feel each fall, hit, and desperate decision. I actually like that it’s not overdone but left to be survival in its rawest form.
Still, I have to admit that this film isn’t without flaws. The cops came off as unserious to me. Cause tell me why a cop will see that his partner has been shot and when he has the opportunity to take down the shooter he goes “put your hands up” bla bla bla. The villains are also kind of generic and some dialogue feels predictable.
Rating: 7.5/10
Do I recommend it? Well to anyone who loves survival thrillers, father-daughter dynamics, or watching Jason Momoa go full protective mode with nothing but his wits and courage.
Haha I totally get that “just one movie before bed” trap 😅. Next thing you know, it’s 2 a.m. and you’re wide awake! For me, that doesn't happen with movies but with books/series. Just one more chapter or just one more episode and I'm awake till 4am.
Jason Momoa always nails those protective dad roles, and your review really sells Braven. Sounds like a solid, underrated survival thriller worth checking out! 🎥🔥
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STOPNext thing you know, the sun is up! I love good movies! I with put this on my list 😊
Hehehe. Please do :)
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