Another movie based on a video game and another trip to the theater with little expectation. That may have worked in the movie’s favor as the history of games being turned into movies is not worth bragging about. Max Payne, based on the violent video game, is a decent, if not overly exciting, modern film noir.
Payne is a detective who has been reduced to working cold cases in a lonely, dreary office. In fact, the whole movie is filmed in shades of gray and blue, with only an occasional burst of color, such as a woman’s red dress in one pivotal scene. Payne’s wife and child were murdered and he is now secretly still hunting for the culprit in his off time. The plot gets interesting, although predictable, when a recent murder is connected to his wife’s death.
Mark Wahlberg has grown as an actor and this is his best type of character. Like in The Departed, he is best when playing a frustrated tough guy. Something About Charlie proved romantic charm is something he needs to work on, but a gun toting, vindictive cop fits him comfortably.
There was more than one blog written about the casting choice of Mila Kunis as Mona. Some fans of the game objected to the star of a sitcom playing an action heroine. Her screen time is quite minimal and I wonder if she lost some scenes to the cutting room floor in response to the negative blogs. In my humble opinion, she does alright, and would have liked to have seen more of her.
Max Payne delivers the goods in the action department. It is nothing real special, but it is enough to keep you watching. As in so many video game inspired movies, Max Payne suffers from lack of personality. His only character trait is his need for revenge. The movie has a scene after the credits that hints at a sequel, if the movie makes enough money to inspire one. It could only work if they can develop this character now that his reason for living has been resolved.
