The Big Picture Mark Wahlberg and Halle Berry have stellar chemistry in The Union. The action sequences are dynamic and exciting. J.K. Simmons
The Big Picture
- Mark Wahlberg and Halle Berry have stellar chemistry in The Union.
- The action sequences are dynamic and exciting.
- J.K. Simmons and the rest of the supporting cast elevate the movie.
What Is ‘The Union’ About?
The Union stars Wahlberg as Mike McKenna, a kindhearted construction worker who spends his time working on precarious scaffolding and hooking up with his English teacher (which is unfortunate, but don’t get too hung up on it). One night, he reconnects with old flame and current super-spy, Roxanne Hall (Halle Berry), who informs him that she and her team “The Union” — including the likes of J.K. Simmons, Alice Lee, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, and Jackie Earle Haley — require Mike’s help to ensure that important information doesn’t wind up in the wrong, dangerous hands. The Union isn’t a spy organization full of Harvard grads and posh elites decked out in tuxedos, but rather a secret group composed of blue-collar workers. The “guys who keep the world running,” these everyday heroes combine street smarts and book smarts, flying under the radar and saving the day while nobody knows they’re doing it. As the mission gets more and more complicated, Mike must decide if he wants to return to his normal life or to follow Roxanne into the thrilling and dangerous world of espionage.
While the “reluctant hero pulled into a whirlwind of chaos” plot isn’t original, The Union puts a unique spin on the genre by swapping suave, James Bond-esque spies for rugged foremen and other often overlooked members of society. Similarly, Mike and Roxanne’s lost-love backstory is imbued with a depth and familiarity that makes us feel invested in their relationship, should it end with a happily ever after or not.
As far as star-studded action comedies go, The Union is a strong entry in the genre. With its well-rounded performances, exciting action sequences, and stellar chemistry between Wahlberg and Berry, The Union is a fun, worthwhile watch that tees itself up nicely for a potential sequel mission — should Mike and Roxanne choose to accept it.
Playing former CIA agent Tom Brennan, J.K. Simmons brings his usual charisma to the role, demanding authority while showing a reluctant fondness for his employees as the head of The Union’s London Headquarters. The rest of the ensemble cast filling out The Union have great rapport and range, and Mike Colter and Jessica De Gouw likewise prove themselves powerhouses in fairly sparse screen time.
The Union will be available to stream on Netflix in the U.S. beginning August 16.
Overall, The Union is a fun, action-packed thriller that combines humor, heat, and exciting stunts. With its unique premise, well-rounded performances, and stellar chemistry between the leads, it’s a must-watch for fans of the genre.
FAQs
Q: What is the release date of The Union?
A: The Union will be available to stream on Netflix in the U.S. beginning August 16.
Q: Who are the main cast members of The Union?
A: The main cast members of The Union include Mark Wahlberg, Halle Berry, J.K. Simmons, Alice Lee, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, and Jackie Earle Haley.
Q: Is The Union a spy movie?
A: Yes, The Union is a spy movie, but it puts a unique spin on the genre by swapping suave, James Bond-esque spies for rugged foremen and other often overlooked members of society.
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