Peppermint

Peppermint is an intense and gritty 2018 action thriller film, directed by Pierre Morel, known for his work on the popular Liam Neeson hit, 'Taken'. Starring the versatile talent of Jennifer Garner, the film allows her to revisit her action roots from her days on the TV series Alias and films like Daredevil and Elektra. The movie also features the impressive talent of John Gallagher Jr. and John Ortiz, lending credence and depth to the narrative's backdrop.

The plot of Peppermint centres around Riley North (Jennifer Garner), an everyday suburban mother and wife, whose life takes a sudden nightmarish turn when her husband and daughter are deceased in a brutal, mysterious act of violence that shocks her peaceful world to its core. Stricken by grief and robbed of justice by a corrupt system, Riley is forced to disappear.

The story then jumps five years into the future, where Garner's character, Riley, resurfaces as a driven and lethal vigilante. Bent on avenging the tragic loss of her family, she becomes a dark force to be reckoned with. Throughout the narrative, Riley embarks on a grim path of vengeance, systematically hunting down those who are guilty of turning her life upside down, leaving a bloody trail in her wake.

Garners' terrific performance combines vulnerability and tenacity that invigorates her reprisal role as the tenacious Riley. She accurately portrays a devastated woman, a mother, who morphed into an emissary of retribution. Garner's commitment to the physicality of the part shines through, with the actress performing many of her stunts and impressively tackling the physical and emotional terrain of her character's transformation.

Peppermint features a tightly knit supporting cast with John Gallagher Jr. and John Ortiz playing the nuanced roles of law enforcement officials investigating Riley's case. Both actors adroitly depict the moral ambiguity and inner conflicts of their characters, providing depth to their roles and adding a further layer of complexity to the story.

Peppermint is soaked in nerve-jangling action sequences that are relentless, grisly and well-choreographed, furthering the grim tone of the film. From breath-taking chase sequences to high-octane gunfights, the action set pieces are exquisitely designed. The film's cinematography beautifully captures the underbelly of a city under siege as Riley cleans house and exalts in the power of her rage-fuelled justice.

The narrative of Peppermint also explores various themes. In addition to the fundamental theme of revenge, it delves into corruption, moral flaws within the legal system, and the exploration of grief and loss. More importantly, it underscores the significance of family and love as a driving force for action. The film incorporates these elements throughout its run, crafting a rich tapestry that gives meaning and resonance to Riley's journey.

The film's title, Peppermint, is tied to high personal significance for Garner's character and serves as an emotional linchpin that fuels her thirst for vengeance. It prompts reflections on lost innocence and happiness, and the bitter pill of abiding grief that transforms an average suburban mother into a relentless force for justice.

Peppermint is a pull-no-punches, action-packed drama that interweaves explosive combat sequences, suspense, and a compelling narrative. Despite its intense violence, it never fails to capture the emotional depth of Riley's character and her motivations. This film is a showcase for Jennifer Garner's range as an actress, skillfully handling both the physical fight scenes and the emotional turmoil her character experiences. Peppermint offers an adrenaline-fueled cinematic experience that action enthusiasts will enjoy, even as it delves into a gut-wrenching study of a woman's journey from grieving mother to avenger.