Fatherhood takes center stage in the latest Netflix release, “60 Minutes,” a German-produced action thriller that unfolds over a tight 90-minute runtime. Directed by Oliver Kienle, the film introduces us to Octavio, played by Emilio Sakraya, an MMA fighter facing a race against time.
The plot kicks into high gear as Octavio must navigate his way across Berlin to make it to his daughter’s birthday party at his ex’s house. The catch? He has less than an hour, or he risks losing custody of his beloved little girl. To complicate matters further, Octavio is scheduled for an undercard bout later that evening, adding an extra layer of tension to an already time-sensitive situation.
“60 Minutes” effectively captures the stress and urgency of Octavio’s predicament, skillfully delving into the sacrifices a father is willing to make for his child. Emilio Sakraya’s portrayal adds depth to the character as he undergoes pre-fight warm-ups and a drive to the arena, constantly in contact via Bluetooth with those who play a crucial role in his tumultuous day.
The real-time countdown begins when Octavio receives a call from his ex, threatening sole custody unless he arrives within the hour to negotiate their daughter’s future. Opting to prioritize his paternal responsibilities over the fight, Octavio abandons the arena and sets off on a high-stakes journey through the streets of Berlin.
As Octavio races against time, a new subplot emerges involving gangster-like characters seeking revenge due to a rigged match. This adds an additional layer of danger as they become relentless pursuers, turning the streets of Berlin into a battleground.
Despite its gripping narrative, “60 Minutes” faces some constraints, particularly with the time jumps that slightly detract from the realism. The film incorporates post-production graphics, including a countdown stopwatch and a map tracking Octavio’s progress, but the abrupt transitions between day and night may leave audiences questioning the timeline.
Director Oliver Kienle skillfully balances the emotional stakes with intense action sequences reminiscent of films like “John Wick” and “Run Lola Run.” While some punches in the film’s third act may not land as effectively, the vibrant cinematography showcases Berlin as a dynamic and colorful backdrop.
“60 Minutes” may not aim for overly dramatic visuals, but its fast-paced narrative and compelling early moments keep audiences engaged. Despite minor flaws, the film offers a unique blend of fatherly devotion, high-stakes action, and the relentless pursuit of a father determined to make it to his daughter in time.