Anna

             Russian model Sasha Luss is Anna – an intelligent, highly skilled, lethal assassin. The KGB employs Anna under the mentorship of Olga (Helen Mirren). Hired by a modelling agency, Anna has the perfect cover as she stacks up kills, working closely with her comrade Alex (Luke Evans). But as is the case with spy-thrillers, everything is not as it seems. To reveal any more of the plot would take away the element of surprise, and while that’s generally avoided in assessing a film, it’s a plot device that ‘Anna’ relies heavily upon. Unfortunately, this becomes detrimental. 

Luc Besson has made a career out of female-centric films in the past, and he does well to establish Anna as a determined killer. Sasha Luss has ample moments to showcase her acting and fighting skills and is convincing enough in both areas, although the role demands a far more experienced and nuanced performance. Being paired with Helen Mirren certainly helps the newcomer, especially as the veteran actress adds emotional depth to some scenes that serve the film well. Mirren revels in the character as she clearly enjoys playing a tough-as-nails, no-nonsense KGB trainer. Luke Evans and Cillian Murphy put in strong turns as agents at opposite ends. But all their efforts can’t salvage a convoluted screenplay. 

Initially, ‘Anna’ effectively uses flashbacks to fill in narrative gaps after throwing one twist after the other. Sadly, there comes a point where they become increasingly far-fetched; cinematic liberties notwithstanding. This also leads to blurry motives. It’s hard to pin down what Anna really wants, so when she goes full throttle killing everyone in sight, the action loses some steam. Add to the fact we’ve seen ample hand-to-hand combat, and gunfights in the recent past to be easily impressed. The action stakes have been raised, and ‘Anna’ is a couple of years behind on that front. Luc Besson’s latest is stylish, yet indulgent in its execution to a fault. Yes, there’s some fun to be had in this bonkers spy-thriller led by a tough female protagonist, but the gasps eventually develop into groans as 'Anna' tries to shock you at every turn.