Nothing to do with the recent first-person shooter ‘Call of Duty: Black Ops’, Legacy: Black Ops is more substantial than its inelegant, video-game-esque title might imply. The film follows Malcolm Gray (Idris Elba), an ex-Black Ops soldier who is hiding in a shabby New York apartment since his last failed mission, during which he was captured, tortured and forced to watch his colleagues be killed. He seems to have evidence that points to his brother, a prominent politician, as a conspirator; but how much of this suspicion is actually guilt and paranoia?
Though it opens with an explosive action sequence, the film quickly transforms from generic action thriller to involving psychological-political drama, and an above-average one at that. The steely, pristine cinematography perfectly suits the controlled camerawork and hard-bitten performances. But the biggest draw is the presence of Idris Elba, aka Stringer Bell from HBO’s The Wire, in the lead role. Though Elba has done some pretty dodgy work elsewhere since his role in The Wire came to an end (like the BBC drama Luther), here he brilliantly proves that he has depth, range and that he can carry a film, since he’s alone onscreen for a good amount of the running time. (Wire fans will also be happy to see the ever-dependable Clarke Peters, aka Lester Freamon, in a supporting role).
Though it might have found a larger audience if it wasn’t saddled with such a clumsy, straight-to-DVD title, Legacy: Black Ops provides the goods it’s a solid drama with compelling performances and a sharp, involving visual style. Writer-director Ikimi is definitely one to watch out for in the future.
Overall Verdict: Dark, compelling psychological drama with a standout performance from Elba.
Special Features:
Director’s Commentary
Behind-the-scenes
Deleted Scenes
Reviewer: Tom René