In a cinematic landscape currently dominated by action films, a new Brazilian gem has emerged on Netflix. Titled “Overhaul,” this movie aspires to be a pulse-pounding crime thriller that delivers an adrenaline rush directly to your senses. But does it succeed in doing so without delving into deeper territories? Let’s dive into my review of “Overhaul.”
The Story of Overhaul “Overhaul” follows the journey of Roger, a truck racer, who finds himself entangled in the world of crime following his father’s departure. Can he navigate the treacherous waters between his racing career and his illicit side job?
Directed by Tomas Portella, “Overhaul” boasts a talented cast including Thiago Martins as Roger, Sheron Menezzes as Rainha, Raphael Logam as Danilo, Vitoria Valentin as Barbara, Evandro Mesquita as Odilon, Paulo Vilhena as Afonso, and others.
What Works for Overhaul? In a genre where action often takes precedence over storytelling, “Overhaul” manages to offer a compelling narrative. It kicks off with a fiery race and then delves into the bonds between friends. While the plot does follow some predictable paths, it compensates with an adrenaline rush that keeps you hooked throughout the film.
One unique aspect of “Overhaul” is its avoidance of one-on-one action scenes and combat sequences, yet it successfully channels the expected action movie vibes. The screenplay is quite engaging, favoring a concise storytelling style over melodramatic emotions, which works to the film’s advantage.
Evaluating the Performances Thiago Martins shines as Roger, bringing a reassuring presence to the film even in the absence of traditional combat scenes. His dialogue delivery is understated, his expressions feel natural, and his on-screen presence aligns seamlessly with Roger’s character.
Sheron Menezzes, despite her limited role as Rainha, a fellow truck racer, leaves a lasting impression. Her performance satisfies and adds depth to the story.
Raphael Logam delivers an honest portrayal of Danilo, complementing the protagonist and staying true to his character. Vitoria Valentin, in her role as Barbara, a teenager, delivers a standout performance, showcasing her burgeoning talent despite her early career stage.
What Doesn’t Work for Overhaul? The film’s primary drawback is its limited scope for expansion. Once it establishes its premise, the conclusion becomes fairly predictable. “Overhaul” remains confined within its narrow world of crime, resulting in a lack of depth. It sticks to familiar crime elements, characters, and, interestingly, law enforcement.
Furthermore, the movie misses an opportunity for a captivating plot twist. While avoiding melodrama is commendable, it fails to introduce any dramatic tension, which could have significantly enhanced the viewing experience.
Additionally, the film’s twists are somewhat predictable, which is par for the course in the action and adventure genre.
Stream or Skip? “Overhaul” isn’t flawless, but it’s undeniably engaging. While I can’t wholeheartedly endorse it, I also can’t dismiss it entirely. Most viewers will likely find it an enjoyable watch, making it worth giving a chance. After all, it’s an exhilarating crime ride that, despite its limitations, delivers the thrills you’d expect from the genre. So, why not give it a shot?