Apex Predator

In the not-too-distant future, a group of wealthy hunters are in pursuit of former cop James Malone (Bruce Willis). On a remote island, he finds himself serving a life sentence for a crime he did not commit, competing in a sadistic game of survival in exchange for his freedom. However, it isn’t long before the hunters become the hunted as the rich businessmen begin to target one another.

It’s somewhat frustrating to witness a once highly in-demand actor simply going through the motions. As with much of the star’s recent output, he once again offers a listless and lacklustre performance, with the film’s highest billed name having relatively little screen time. Spending much of the film hiding in woodland, the actor clearly cares very little about the project and as a result viewers find themselves unable to fully invest in his character or concern themselves with his journey. It’s a real shame as, had he injected some more energy and enthusiasm, the actor would have undoubtedly advanced the production. 

Neal McDonough, on the other hand, does elevate proceedings, offering a chillingly calculated, menacing performance as main antagonist Rainsford. The actor is always engrossing to watch. There is also sturdy support from Lochlyn Munro, who perfectly captures the essence of his middle-aged jock character. 

Aside from its low budget, most of which no doubt went on Willis, Apex Predator suffers from a sluggish script, brimming with wooden, on-the-nose dialogue. There are also far too many convenient coincidences littered throughout, such as Malone always being in the right place at the right time and subsequently able to learn important information about those in pursuit of him. One doesn’t buy it and patience soon wears thin. 

A score by Hugh Wielenga adds atmosphere and there is some nice cinematography, courtesy of Wai Sun Cheng, however the CGI leaves a lot to be desired and only serves to reiterate the fact that this is ultimately an unoriginal and uninspired B-Movie that is instantly forgettable. If one takes it for what it is, a little fun can be found here, especially with certain well executed jump-scares, but prospective viewers are advised not to set their expectations too high. 

Jonathan Marshall

Apex Predator is released in select cinemas on 12^th November 2021.

Watch the trailer for Apex Predator here: