Movie Review: Back in Action

Quick Recap

After a botched retrieval operation and a sudden realisation, CIA agents Matthew and Emily decide to go deep undercover. However, an unlikely encounter forces them out of hiding and into danger.

Let me start by saying it’s so good to see Cameron Diaz and Jamie Foxx together again. The former has been away from the limelight for over a decade—a decision she made to focus on her kids and family.

The latter, well, has recovered from what could have been the end of the road. He bounced back, and I recently watched his Netflix documentary, What Had Happened Was... If you haven’t seen it yet, you should. It offers clarity on what actually happened to him and what didn’t.

Okay, now back to the movie proper.

The Story

We’ve had tons of family spy movies in the past with the same “abandoning a lifestyle to focus on family, then things go awry”. So, the story itself isn’t groundbreaking. However, the actors were the real highlight for me.

The “Chemistry”

I’ve read comments about how there wasn’t much chemistry between the actors, and I get it. We all loved the chemistry Ryan Reynolds had with Zoe Saldana in The Adam Project, but we can’t always have that.

I also think the near-kisses were intentional—perhaps the actors just didn’t want to go down that path. It’s not uncommon for certain actors to refuse to kiss on set. Personally, I see their marriage in the film as more of a buddy dynamic. If they didn’t want to kiss, that’s fine. It’s not so much a big deal.

I understand the counterargument that chemistry goes beyond physical touch, but let’s admit this movie wasn’t aiming to create that kind of connection.

The title itself feels like an homage to both actors, who’ve been away for a while.

In Reality

If I were a former spy and decided to have a family, best believe my kids would know, one way or another. I did appreciate how they had their getaway bag ready, packed with cash and passports—that’s how you lay low from a life of spy.

The Bad Guy

My sister and I figured it out almost immediately. Even when he was shot, we still insisted it was fake. It was easy to suspect Baron as the bad guy, but a true villain doesn’t stand out so obviously from the start.

My Thoughts

I loved the fight scenes on the plane—they were swift, tightly choreographed, and perfectly timed. It was refreshing to see Cameron channel her Charlie’s Angels energy and just as thrilling to see Jamie back in action.

I’m not sure how they managed to get Glenn Close involved, but that was a pleasant surprise.

The storyline is predictable, with sprinkles of corny emotions, light comedy, and a bit of sentimentality. Don’t go into it expecting groundbreaking content. It’s a feel-good movie, perfect for a family night.

I watched it with my mum and sister, and my mum enjoyed it a lot. If you’re looking for something fun and chill to watch, this is a solid choice.