As we usher in 2024, action cinema enthusiasts are treated to an early masterpiece with the release of “Mayhem!”. Directed by the visionary Xavier Gens and featuring a star-studded team including action designer Jude Poyer and lead actor Nassim Lyes, this film is poised to become a genre-defining phenomenon, much like “The Raid: Redemption” and “John Wick” in previous years.
A New Benchmark in Action Filmmaking
“Mayhem!”, initially turning heads at Fantasia Fest as “Farang”, is a whirlwind of kinetic energy and ruthless action. Gens, Poyer, and Lyes synergize to create a cinematic experience where camera dynamics flawlessly complement the grounded, yet fluid choreography of Lyes, a former kickboxing champion. This synergy crafts a visual spectacle that’s both mesmerizing and raw, potentially eclipsing any action release from 2023.
Depth Beyond Violence
What distinguishes “Mayhem!” from typical revenge sagas is its rich narrative fabric. The film invests time in fleshing out its main characters, Samir (played by Lyes) and Mia (portrayed by Loryn Nounay), adding layers of depth to their tragic journey. The couple’s struggle for their dream amidst societal and economic hurdles adds a relatable, human element to the story, elevating it beyond mere action thrills.
A Story Rooted in Realism
Samir, an ex-con, flees France for Thailand, building a new life with Mia. Their aspirations of owning land and running a restaurant are thwarted by local laws and a powerful developer, plunging Samir into a vortex of danger. This conflict, rooted in a relatable struggle against wealth and power, sets the stage for a heart-pounding narrative.
Unleashing ‘Mayhem!’
As the film transitions into its revenge-driven second half, the emotional stakes amplify the physicality of the action. Lyes’ portrayal of Samir’s sorrow, combined with his martial prowess, creates a character who is both formidable and empathetic. The film’s action sequences, intelligently designed using pre-viz techniques, are both realistic and inventive, showcasing Lyes’ kickboxing skills in a brutally artistic light.
A Hallmark Fight Scene
The climax of “Mayhem!” is a stunning hallway-to-elevator fight sequence, showcasing Samir’s tactical ingenuity in confined spaces. This sequence, with its inventive choreography and filming style, stands as a testament to Gens’ directorial ingenuity and Poyer’s action design expertise.
Beyond the Action Hero Archetype
“Mayhem!” breaks the mold of the invincible action hero. Samir faces his fair share of physical punishment, adding realism and raising the stakes in each fight. The elevator fight scene, in particular, is a brilliant display of Samir’s vulnerability and resilience, deserving a spot in the annals of great movie fight scenes.
A Fusion of Styles
Gens attributes his evolved filmmaking approach to his diverse experiences, including the art-house “Papicha” and the gritty “Gangs of London”. This blend of romantic drama and methodical action filmmaking culminates in “Mayhem!”, creating a multifaceted narrative that is as emotionally compelling as it is visually stunning.
“Mayhem!” is more than just an action movie; it’s a cinematic journey that combines heart-wrenching drama with breathtaking action. Its release not only sets a high bar for 2024 but also promises to be a landmark in action cinema for years to come. “Mayhem!” is a must-watch for anyone seeking a film that marries depth of character with exhilarating action, redefining what it means to be an action movie in the 21st century.
Mayhem! comes to U.S. theaters on Jan. 5.
