Take Cover Review: An Action Packed Thriller Starring Scott Adkins

If you’re a fan of edge-of-your-seat action thrillers, then “Take Cover” is one movie you don’t want to miss. With an impressive cast led by Scott Adkins, this film promises explosive sequences, high-stakes drama, and an adrenaline-pumping storyline that will keep you hooked from start to finish. Set to release on on October 4th, Take Cover is a claustrophobic action thriller that’s poised to become a must-watch for action enthusiasts.

Plot Overview: A Hitman with Nowhere to Hide

At the heart of Take Cover is Sam Lorde, a seasoned hitman who’s spent his entire life eliminating targets. After a final job goes wrong, Lorde finds himself disillusioned, contemplating retirement. But there’s no easy exit for a man with a past like his. His decision to quit comes too late, as his final mission leads to him becoming the hunted. With no backup and limited cover, Sam must fight to survive in an increasingly hostile environment, navigating deadly traps and lethal opponents who won’t rest until he’s dead.

A Stellar Cast to Back an Explosive Storyline

The film boasts an impressive lineup of talented actors, adding depth and excitement to the already thrilling narrative. Scott Adkins, best known for his roles in John Wick: Chapter 4 and One More Shot, stars as Sam Lorde, bringing his usual blend of intense physicality and emotional depth to the character. Joining him is Jack Parr (Peaky Blinders), Alice Eve (Men in Black 3), Madalina Bellariu Ion (The Young Pope), and Billy Clements (Meg 2: The Trench). Together, this cast creates a dynamic ensemble that promises gripping performances throughout.

The Vision Behind the Film: Director Nick McKinless

In the director’s seat is Nick McKinless, a veteran stuntman and action director known for his expertise in high-octane scenes. McKinless, who has worked on numerous Hollywood blockbusters, describes Take Cover as a passion project that blends influences from classic 80s action films with a fresh, modern twist.

“When we started this film, I half-joked that we were making Die Hard on a budget,” McKinless said. The comparison is more than apt. Much like Die Hard, Take Cover takes place in a confined, high-stakes environment a high-rise building where Sam Lorde faces off against wave after wave of bad guys. But McKinless is quick to point out that Take Cover has its own unique flair. While paying homage to the action films of the past, the film aims to create something new and thrilling for today’s audiences.

Action With a Purpose: No Filler, All Thrill

One of the things that set Take Cover apart is its approach to action sequences. According to McKinless, every fight, explosion, and bullet hit serves a purpose in the narrative. “Action should be fun and stylish, but it should not be there just for the sake of creating action set pieces,” McKinless explains. Each punch, kick, and shootout in Take Cover is designed to drive the story forward, keeping viewers engaged in both the plot and the adrenaline-fueled spectacle.

Take, for example, the intricate drone sequence in the film, a complete CGI build that plays a pivotal role in the storyline. After countless design iterations, the final version of the drone a menacing, weaponized machine known as MAX 1 became an integral part of the action. The drone’s presence in the film not only adds to the tension but also serves as a crucial turning point in the plot, as Sam Lorde must find a way to outsmart and ultimately destroy it.

The Parachute Escape: A Heart-Stopping Stunt

One of the film’s most ambitious scenes is the parachute escape sequence. In an era where many films rely heavily on CGI and stunt doubles, Take Cover takes a more authentic approach. Scott Adkins, known for his incredible martial arts skills, performed the dangerous jump himself, bringing a level of realism to the scene that CGI simply can’t replicate. Adkins may excel at action, but heights are not his strong suit, adding a genuine sense of fear to his performance. That authenticity shines through, elevating the parachute sequence into one of the film’s most memorable moments.

Easter Eggs and Homages: A Treat for Movie Buffs

For fans of action films and cinema in general, Take Cover offers more than just explosive set pieces it’s filled with easter eggs and references that will delight movie buffs. McKinless, who admits to being a bit of a geek himself, filled the film with nods to iconic films and pop culture.

For example, there’s a scene where Ken, one of the film’s characters, reads an Accident Man comic book, a reference to one of Scott Adkins’ earlier films. In another scene, Ken’s security code 51-5-0 references Van Halen’s iconic album, 5150. And for those with a keen eye, there’s even a framed picture that says “Lucky Bastard” a recurring joke throughout the film that ties into Sam Lorde’s character arc.

The Underlying Meaning: More Than Just Action

While Take Cover is undoubtedly an action-packed thrill ride, it’s also a film with emotional depth. At its core, the story is about redemption and finding purpose. Sam Lorde, a man who has spent his entire life as a hitman, begins the film questioning his choices and seeking something more than just money and survival. Over the course of the film, he forms a bond with Mona’s daughter, Milena, and it’s through this relationship that he begins to find a sense of meaning beyond the violence. By the end of the film, Sam isn’t just fighting for his life he’s fighting to protect those he cares about.

Release Date and What to Expect

Take Cover will be available on Digital Platforms and DVD starting October 14th, and anticipation is already building. In addition to the upcoming release, the film has garnered attention at the European Film Market (EFM), where it’s being pitched to potential buyers. This film promises to be a standout in the action genre, offering thrilling sequences, heart-pounding suspense, and a surprising emotional core that sets it apart from the usual fare.

Fans of Scott Adkins and action movies in general should mark their calendars. With its combination of adrenaline-pumping action, intricate choreography, and a storyline that keeps you invested, Take Cover is set to be one of the most exciting releases of the year. If you’ve been longing for a film that captures the fun, over-the-top action of the 80s while offering something fresh and modern, this is the movie for you.