The title Back in Action
not only references the story of two off-duty spies but also the return of Cameron Diaz and Jaime Foxx. The duo were last screen partners in 2014 for the remake of Annie, Diaz’s last film before her retirement. Foxx suffered a medical emergency during production and Back in Action is his big welcome back after being waylaid. Regardless of the quality of the film, the project is engaging as we watch two charismatic people, talented stars, and dear friends come together for a quaint, family-friendly adventure.
Before you click play on Netflix’s actioner, please toss out any expectations that you will be entertained by some sophisticated, thrilling, meticulously crafted action film. This is the My Spy brand of action flicks and, for what it is, it’s a somewhat fun watch. It is not groundbreaking but entertaining despite some steep pacing, writing, and acting shortcomings. Mind you, no one is expecting fantastic performances, but when you have the likes of Diaz, Fox, Andrew Scott, and Glenn Close, the child actors aren’t who we expect to be the stand-out talent.
A Welcome Reunion In A Sleepy Ensemble Cast
Back in Action follows Diaz and Foxx as Emily and Matt, a pair of spies for the CIA who find they have been betrayed just as they discover they are expecting a baby. They decide to escape it all and live a calm, suburban life with their new family. However, the mission that changed everything becomes relevant again when they are discovered at a club busting their underage daughter. Cue Kyle Chandler, their former boss, who knocks on the door and brings trouble with him.
The story about out-of-work spies isn’t entirely original, but it is a common trope that family adventures tend to deploy to get kids in on the semi-G-rated adventure. And for what it is worth, Diaz and Foxx seem to be having fun with it.
Though there isn’t great romantic chemistry, [Diaz and Foxx’s] bond is palpable and undeniable.
The film is entertaining, and our leads are having a good time together. Everyone else, however, except for Close, is practically sleepwalking through the film. Scott is somewhat amusing as an MI6 agent who has a crush on Emily but he’s giving the same level of energy as someone forced into a sleep study. Jamie Demetriou is a surprising delight and the only one besides the kid actors to fully embrace the film.
Close is the closest to bringing the same level of energy as Diaz and Foxx, which isn’t incredibly high to begin with. She’s speaking with a different accent than her own, which requires some level of attentiveness and intention. While sometimes engaging, the film still feels deflated because there’s only so much investment being put into making this wholesome family adventure exciting and worthwhile.
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Diaz and Foxx are the main draws, of course. As Emily and Matt, they create the fun atmosphere required to tell this story. Diaz slips into the profession with ease after being in retirement; in a way, her performance is reminiscent of Natalie from Charlie’s Angels, only more mature. The actress has this knack for bringing quirky, feisty women to life without ever coming across as grating. There is a lightness about her that really invites us to root for her.
Foxx, on the other hand, is a natural comedian and charmer. He is effortless with his trying-to-be-cool-but-is-lowkey-still-very-cool kind of attitude. Together, he and Diaz are sweet and delightful. Though there isn’t great romantic chemistry, their bond is palpable and undeniable. That said, the two don’t seem to be giving the same energy they’ve given to other, better quality projects. It feels more like they are doing it for the kids. It’s a nice sentiment, but it doesn’t help to make Back in Action a must-see.
Unambitious Yet Entertaining Family Adventure Finds An Appropriate Home On Netflix
Seth Gordon helmed the likes of Baywatch, Horrible Bosses, Identity Theft, and Back in Action, which fits neatly into this filmography. It’s a semi-funny comedy with great talent that lacks interesting directing choices. Gordon’s approach is very stable but boring. That would be fine if the script wasn’t lacking. A few chuckles are littered throughout, but that can be credited to the actors’ line delivery. Back in Action succeeds by doing the bare minimum.
It’s not outright terrible, but it’s nothing to get too excited about, either. There’s even a sweet subplot about mother and daughters and familial trust. It’s an overall cute family movie and anyone who adores Diaz and Foxx will find a way to enjoy it.
Back in Action is now available to stream on Netflix. The film is 114 minutes long and rated PG-13 for sequences of violence and action, some suggestive references and strong language, and brief teen partying.
- Cameron Diaz and Jamie Foxx’s reunion has its fun moments
- The film is a cute family movie
- The film lacks interesting directing choices
- The adult cast has energy but it’s not up there with other, better projects
