Friday Night Movies: Swordfish

Welcome once again to "Friday Night Movies," where we dig into the vaults to spotlight films that promise to start your weekend off with a bang. This week, we're dialling up the adrenaline with the heist thriller "Swordfish," directed by Dominic Sena in 2001.

Known for its all-star cast and pulsating pace, "Swordfish" is a must-watch for fans who crave a blend of cyber hacking and action-packed scenes. Interestingly, this film circles back to the early days of John Travolta’s action career resurgence.

Plot

"Swordfish" revolves around the complex world of cybercrime where nothing is as straightforward as it seems. The plot thickens with Stanley Jobson, an ex-con and one of the world's top computer hackers, who has been forbidden from touching a keyboard as part of his parole. However, his peaceful life is turned upside down when he is contacted by the charismatic but dangerous Gabriel Shear, who wants Stanley's help to siphon $9 billion in illegal government funds. As Stanley is drawn deeper into Gabriel’s plans, the stakes get higher, entangling him in a perilous web of terrorism, espionage, and betrayal.

Cast

The ensemble in "Swordfish" is full of A-list Hollywood superstars led by John Travolta, whose portrayal of Gabriel Shear as a menacing and complex antagonist with ambiguous morals. Hugh Jackman's role as Stanley Jobson showcases as always his versatility to play any role, blending vulnerability with a sharp intellect. Halle Berry stars as Ginger Knowles, Gabriel’s alluring and mysterious associate, delivering a performance that adds an extra layer of intrigue to the plot — whose side is she really on? Don Cheadle supports as Agent Roberts, a law enforcer determined to untangle the web of deceit and corruption.

Reviews

Critically, "Swordfish" has not set the world on fire. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds an approval rating that is one of the least impressive on our Friday Night Movies list scoring 59% Audience Score. IMDb offers a slightly more favourable view, scoring 6.5/10 with audiences generally appreciating the film's brisk pacing and the strong performances of its lead cast.

For us though we see it for what it is — a fun action-packed movie with some twists and turns to keep you guessing on the way. In other words, a great flick to kick back and watch on a Friday night.

Trailer

Memorable Scenes

Among the memorable scenes that define "Swordfish," the opening sequence is particularly striking. It features a tense hostage situation that is both visually and narratively compelling, setting the tone for the entire movie. Another unforgettable moment is the spectacular car chase with a bus airlifted by a helicopter, a scene that perfectly encapsulates the film's commitment to high-stakes, visually stunning action.

How To Watch Swordfish

Available to stream on Stan.

We look forward to seeing you here again next week for our next Friday night movie recommendation.

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