If you enjoy reading my Spoiler-Free reviews, please follow my blog @ https://www.msbreviews.com The Rhythm Section, produced by the same company behind the James Bond films, experienced significant production setbacks. Blake Lively sustained an injury on set, which pushed back the film’s release until late 2019 and then again to what's often called "trash month," so I went in with fairly low expectations. It marked my first time seeing a feature film directed by Reed Morano, while Mark Burnell made his debut as a screenwriter. Typically, I only know about a movie from its synopsis and the people involved, but this time, I also noticed the overwhelmingly negative reactions from critics and audiences. Despite some clear shortcomings, I don't think Reed Morano’s film is deserving of being grouped with the other poor movies released in January. Sean Bobbitt’s cinematography stands out technically, particularly through two impressive action sequences presented as seamless takes, along with several wide shots that are genuinely beautiful. I always appreciate films set in real cities or remote locations because they create a realistic atmosphere; when handled well in post-production, the environment can really shape the tone. The acting is also quite strong. Blake Lively gives what might be one of her best performances, certainly her most subdued. Her character faces constant physical and emotional challenges. She portrays Stephanie's mindset convincingly, moving the story forward even when the narrative itself falters. Jude Law is reliably good, and Sterling K. Brown delivers a noteworthy performance as well. However, that’s where the positives largely end. The film’s storyline lacks originality and inventiveness. Beyond being too straightforward and predictable for an action-drama with a central mystery, the editing (by Joan Sobel) feels unusual and makes the movie feel slow. Many moments are stretched out unnecessarily, sometimes by seconds or even minutes. It often feels like nothing is happening; scenes linger far longer than they should. The film’s pacing suffers because of this, ultimately adding up to roughly fifteen or twenty wasted minutes. Furthermore, some conversations are interrupted with glimpses of what will happen later, which can be disorienting and make it unclear where the focus should be. The plot also raises numerous logical questions. I usually avoid pointing out character decisions or plot points like CinemaSins does (even though that channel is intended for comedic purposes), but this movie really prompts viewers to wonder "how is she even able to do that?" Stephanie receives training to become an agent, and while some aspects of that training are unrealistic, I believe the character possesses the necessary skills. My problem is that she rarely uses what she’s learned: she mostly runs away from everything and inadvertently gets innocent people killed during her missions. Beyond her character, there are other individuals with unclear motivations or questionable lifestyles, especially considering the film deals with sensitive topics like secret intelligence and terrorism. The musical score also feels jarring. Like the editing issues, the music choices don’t match the dark and depressing tone of the movie; sometimes, upbeat pop music plays while Stephanie is about to undertake a serious mission—it just doesn't make sense. Overall, The Rhythm Section isn’t as terrible as most January releases, and it probably doesn’t deserve the record for the worst opening weekend ever. However, it still has many problems. The editing (Joan Sobel) is strangely unconventional, with scenes drawn out unnecessarily and dialogue sequences interrupted by flashbacks or flashforwards. Reed Morano fails to bring any creativity or originality to her film, and Mark Burnell’s screenplay feels predictable and is filled with questionable plot points and logical inconsistencies that don't help the already sluggish pacing. Steve Mazzaro's score doesn’t fit the tone, but Sean Bobbitt's cinematography delivers a few surprising action sequences and some striking wide shots. The cast is good, and without Blake Lively’s strong performance, the movie would likely be even worse. Rating: C-

Source on TMDB