Title: Gringo
MPAA Rating: R
Director: Nash Edgerton
Starring: Joel Edgerton, Charlize Theron, David Oyelowo
Runtime: 1 hr 51 mins

What It Is: Mild-mannered businessman Harold Soyinka (Oyelowo) is having a rather hard time. There are rumors the pharmaceutical company he works for is merging with a much larger one. Harold feels overworked, underpaid and unwanted in his job. His boss, company President Richard Rusk (Edgerton) is also a friend to Harold. When Harold is sent down to Mexico to check on a highly experimental, and possibly illegal drug that may solve what ails you he runs amok of a cartel leader known as Pantera Negra. When Harold finds out what Richard and his Vice President Elaine (Theron) have planned he hatches a counter plan to it.

What We Think: I left this film more surprised about it then I thought I would. It’s by no means a memorable picture. Nash Edgerton was able to get his younger brother Joel in this film, much like he was in his debut feature the fantastic Australian film (The Square). Edgerton’s direction tends to lead the film in a better direction. In the hands of another director perhaps this concept wouldn’t work so well, but Edgerton seems to like the material, it helps. Theron is in a completely different movie, unfortunately. I have no clue what she’s doing here and she’s insufferable. None of the characters are particularly likable. This is a huge problem.

Our Grade: C-, There’s some good stuff here but unfortunately it isn’t completely weighed out by the not so good. It’s really too bad that none of the characters offer redemption or are worthy of it. Sharlto Copley is a waste. Throughout this, though it was pretty fun, even if none of it will stick with me very long. It’ll get a mild recommendation but otherwise…meh.