Some flames can never be extinguished.
2024-04-25
N/A
110 min
Debt-ridden pacifist Richard Fyre is propositioned to return to his abandoned mercenary ways by flamboyant zealot Priest to eliminate his international competition in exchange for a clean slate. Standing at a crossroads, he must overcome his fears of becoming the monster he once was to the rightful man he needs to be now before his indecision has dire repercussions for his family.
What makes Fyre Rises stand out is its ambition. It’s clear that the filmmakers poured their hearts into this project, and that passion shines through in many areas. The film follows a classic redemption arc, which is engaging even if it doesn’t offer much originality. The lead performance is one of the movie’s greatest strengths. The protagonist is both vulnerable and determined, and the actor skilfully balances these traits, making the character relatable and compelling. The action sequences are where the movie truly shines. They are raw, grounded, and feel as though the stakes are real. Unlike the over-polished fights in big-budget films, these sequences rely on realism, which makes them far more engaging. The cinematography, too, deserves praise. The use of tight, claustrophobic shots during action scenes creates tension, while the wider, atmospheric shots highlight the protagonist’s isolation in the urban landscape. That said, the film is not without its flaws. The pacing is uneven, especially in the middle portion, where the story takes too long to develop secondary characters who ultimately don’t add much. The dialogue, while functional, often feels stilted, and some scenes could have been trimmed to improve flow. Despite these issues, Fyre Rises delivers a gritty and heartfelt story that indie film enthusiasts will appreciate.
It's rough around the edges, but its heart and ambition shine through. The story isn't groundbreaking, but it's told with sincerity and has enough twists to keep you engaged.
The acting is solid, particularly from the lead, who manages to convey vulnerability and strength in equal measure. The action sequences are gritty and grounded, though the editing occasionally felt choppy, which took me out of the moment.
What really stood out was the cinematography. Despite the budget constraints, the filmmakers used every trick in the book to create a visually engaging experience. It's not perfect, but it's definitely worth a watch for fans of low-budget gems.
