Movie Overview
Released in 2016, Criminal is a distinctive entry in the action and sci-fi genres that explores the intersection of memory and identity. Directed by Ariel Vromen, the film stars Kevin Costner as Jericho Stewart, a volatile and remorseless convict who is chosen for an unprecedented medical procedure. Following the death of CIA agent Bill Pope, played by Ryan Reynolds, the agency races against time to locate a nuclear hacker. To finish Pope's mission, scientists transfer his memories and skills into Jericho’s brain. The result is a chaotic internal struggle as Jericho begins to experience Pope’s emotions and love for his wife, played by Gal Gadot, forcing him to evolve from a cold killer into an unexpected hero.
The cast delivers strong performances, with Kevin Costner effectively portraying a man torn between his violent nature and the implanted empathy of a secret agent. Ryan Reynolds and Gal Gadot provide solid support, anchoring the emotional stakes of the high-risk narrative. The production leverages a gritty atmosphere to enhance the thriller elements, creating a tense experience for viewers watching online. While the movie prioritizes action, its central theme of nature versus nurture adds a layer of complexity to the standard espionage formula.
Despite its intriguing concept, Criminal received mixed reviews from critics. It holds a 6.3/10 rating on IMDb but scored lower with critics, garnering a 30% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a 36/100 score on Metacritic. Many reviewers praised the ambitious premise and Costner’s dedication to the physically demanding role, though some felt the execution leaned too heavily into generic action tropes. However, for audiences seeking a fast-paced thriller available on Netflix, the film offers enough excitement and unique twists to be worth a watch. If you enjoy sci-fi action movies that question what makes us who we are, you should watch Criminal today.
