REVIEW: “Heads of State” (2025)

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Immersing oneself in the absurdity is essential yet demanding when watching the action-comedy “Heads of State”. This movie premieres globally on Prime Video and can be considered a blockbuster summer flick in every aspect. Instead of a theater release, Amazon MGM Studios chose to unveil it as one of their major summer streaming events. The plot is an outrageous mix, but the film offers enough exotic travel scenes, over-the-top action, and eccentric set pieces to keep you engaged.

The film features Idris Elba and John Cena, who jump right into presenting a tough test for viewers. Elba portrays Sam Clarke, the U.K. Prime Minister, displaying a touch of grumpiness and cynicism but convincingly playing the role of England’s leader. On the other hand, it’s more challenging to accept Cena as Will Derringer, the U.S. President, who was once an underwear model and action movie star, now serving as America’s Commander in Chief. Despite their efforts, Elba’s polished demeanor and charisma resonate, while Cena sometimes struggles to convincingly switch between a world-class leader and a comedic character.

A not-so-serious competition has arisen between these two heads of state, often appearing immature at times. Clarke, who’s been in office for six years and is struggling with approval ratings, feels threatened by Derringer’s popular image as a celebrity politician. Derringer hasn’t forgotten that Clarke endorsed his opponent at a well-publicized fish-and-chip dinner, and their animosity reaches its peak during a press conference before they leave London for an important NATO meeting.

As a film enthusiast, I found myself captivated by a tale where the top aides (brilliantly portrayed by Sarah Niles for the Americans and Richard Coyle for the British) devise an intricate public relations strategy. Faced with mounting scrutiny, they consent to journey side by side on Air Force One, aiming to exhibit unity. However, while traversing Belarusian skies, their aircraft is targeted by fanatics tied to Russian arms dealer Viktor Gradov (powerfully played by Paddy Considine). In the ensuing chaos, Clarke and Derringer are compelled to bail out as the plane plummets. With the world convinced of their demise, these adversaries must put aside past animosities and collaborate if they hope to escape to safety.

The film “Heads of State” was directed by Ilya Naishuller, who gained recognition for the more successful movie “Nobody,” featuring Bob Odenkirk. In contrast to that film, this one has a distinct tone and purpose. A team of three screenwriters – Josh Applebaum, André Nemec, and Harrison Query – inject a lot of comedy into their work, which is both an asset and a liability. On the plus side, it demonstrates that the movie doesn’t take itself too seriously, as it shouldn’t. However, the frequent bickering, numerous cheesy jokes, and repetitive humorous music selections can become tiresome rather quickly.

Despite seemingly lacking the necessary elements for an entertaining film, the cast puts in significant effort to make it more engaging than expected. The movie benefits notably from Priyanka Chopra’s performance as MI6 agent Noel Bissett, who was once Clarke’s lover and presumed dead following a failed operation in Buñol, Spain. Chopra brings an unexpected intensity to the action sequences. Jack Quaid also contributes to the enjoyment with his humorous yet endearing portrayal of a CIA operator managing a Warsaw safehouse, albeit with a smaller role.

Despite the apparent self-awareness displayed, the farcical nature of “Heads of State” can be hard to ignore. This isn’t eased by Cena’s casting, jokes that often fall flat, or moments when the movie attempts to convey something profound. However, it comes close to being redeemed by Idris’ charm, Chopra’s determination, and some striking high-budget action sequences that inject energy into the film during its most crucial moments. These elements might be enough for some viewers to consider a potential sequel hinted at in the ending, but for me, it doesn’t quite reach that level.

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2025-08-01 18:57