Lift Movie Review: Kevin Hart’s High-Flying Heist Flick
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- January 19, 2024
Buckle up, movie fans, because Kevin Hart is taking us on a wild ride in his latest action-comedy, “Lift.” Released on Netflix in January 2024, the film follows the hijinks of master thief Cyrus (Hart), who’s lured out of retirement for a seemingly impossible heist: stealing $500 million in gold bullion from a passenger plane mid-flight.
Directed by F. Gary Gray (“Fast & Furious 8”), “Lift” blends humor, suspense, and thrilling action sequences into a crowd-pleasing package. But does it soar to new heights, or crash and burn on the runway? Let’s dive in for a closer look.
Taking Flight: A Plot that Packs a Punch
The film’s premise is simple yet captivating. Imagine being stuck on a plane, oblivious to the fact that a group of cunning criminals are meticulously plotting to relieve the cargo hold of its precious metal bounty. The tension simmers as Cyrus and his motley crew, each with their own unique skillset (think “Ocean’s Eleven” with a dash of “Mission: Impossible”), navigate the cramped confines of the aircraft, dodging turbulence, suspicious flight attendants, and the watchful eye of a stoic FBI agent (Gugu Mbatha-Raw).
“Lift” excels in its ability to balance the outlandish heist with relatable humor. Take, for instance, the scene where Cyrus attempts to crack a high-tech safe using a paperclip and a bobby pin. It’s a ludicrous idea, yet Hart’s comedic timing and the film’s editing make it both believable and laugh-out-loud funny.
Stellar Performances Ground the Action
Hart is in his element as Cyrus, channeling his signature comedic charm while adding a layer of vulnerability and desperation to the character. His chemistry with Mbatha-Raw as the skeptical yet determined agent is undeniable, creating a buddy-cop dynamic that elevates the film’s emotional core.
The supporting cast is equally impressive, with stand-out performances from Vincent D’Onofrio as a ruthless kingpin, Úrsula Corberó (“Money Heist”) as a seductive femme fatale, and Billy Magnussen as a tech-savvy hacker with a penchant for pop culture references. Each character brings their own unique flavor to the heist, making the team dynamics both entertaining and unpredictable.
Soaring Highs and Turbulent Dips
“Lift” isn’t without its flaws. The plot occasionally veers into predictable territory, with some twists and turns feeling a bit formulaic. Additionally, the action sequences, while well-choreographed, can sometimes feel a bit generic, lacking the edge-of-your-seat intensity of other heist films.
However, these shortcomings are easily overshadowed by the film’s overall charm and entertainment value. The humor is consistently funny, the characters are engaging, and the high-stakes heist keeps you hooked until the very end.
Landing the Verdict: A Smooth Ride with a Few Bumps
“Lift” is a crowd-pleasing heist film that delivers laughs, thrills, and a surprisingly heartfelt story. While it may not break new cinematic ground, it soars in its ability to entertain and engage its audience. So, if you’re looking for a fun, fast-paced escape with a stellar cast and a healthy dose of Kevin Hart humor, “Lift” is definitely worth the watch. Just remember to fasten your seatbelt, because this flight is bound to be a bumpy one.
Recommendation: If you enjoyed films like “Ocean’s Eleven,” “Mission: Impossible,” and “Central Intelligence,” then “Lift” is sure to hit the right spot. It’s a lighthearted yet action-packed adventure that will leave you smiling long after the credits roll.
Overall Score: 4 out of 5 stars
