Wanted Man 2024 Movie Review Trailer

 At the dawn of a new year, Dolph Lundgren continues his prolific cinematic journey and “Wanted Man” marks his seventh directorial venture. Unlike some of his peers, Lundgren's foray into film goes beyond vanity projects; he serves as a means to revisit the type of content that endeared him to audiences during the '80s.

However, in this current era, the once commercially attractive image of muscular icons like Lundgren has evolved. Now in his late sixties, he has transitioned from the perfectly sculpted Übermensch physique to a more weathered look reminiscent of tough 20th-century actors like Lee Marvin and Charles Bronson. 

Director: Dolph Lundgren

Writers: Dolph Lundgren, Michael Worth, Hank Hugues

Stars: Dolph Lundgren, Christina Villa, Kelsey Grammer

While this transformation should secure it a niche in American multiplexes, the reality is that it's increasingly difficult for seasoned, granite-faced people to attract broad audiences. In the modern Hollywood landscape, only a select few, like Stallone, actively seek to cast aging action stars in leading roles. Consequently, Lundgren has taken matters into his own hands, creating his own cinematic universe in which he plays failed cops and assassins, roles he was born to play.

In “Wanted Man,” Lundgren plays Johansen, an elderly, racist police officer embroiled in controversy after brutally attacking a Mexican suspect on camera. The narrative unfolds as Johansen is assigned to cross the border into Mexico to recover witnesses linked to a DEA shooting. Unsurprisingly, Johansen's outdated beliefs clash with unfolding events, leading him to question his assumptions about the United States' role in the drug trade. The film attempts to make a political commentary, surpassing many contemporaries by confronting political complexities at their core.

While “Wanted Man” may not reach the heights of cinematic masterpieces, it offers an entertaining and refreshing exploration of Johansen's evolution regarding race and law enforcement. The film, featuring the dramatic prowess of Lundgren and newcomer Christina Villa, prioritizes character relationships over action, delivering memorable moments despite occasional romantic elements that could use reconsideration. Although inspired by street chatter, the script moves away from Dolph's classic bar scene and shows the depth and memorability of the character.

However, “Wanted Man” fails to capture the raw authenticity required for a crime narrative. The film lacks the palpable weight and grime that characterized the best neo-noirs of the 20th century. Lundgren and cinematographer Joe M. Han opt for a too-perfect digital sheen, diminishing the visual impact that could have elevated the compelling material. Despite this flaw, it's notable to see Lundgren, once the embodiment of '80s Russian cool, now embracing the very American genre cinema of the '70s.

In short, while “Wanted Man” may not match the strength of the crime thrillers it emulates, the film is a commendable recommendation for Dolph Lundgren enthusiasts and those with an affinity for back-to-basics crime stories. 

Watch Wanted Man 2024 Movie Trailer