Genre: Action, thriller
G20 is a captivating thriller film that expertly blends together elements of action, drama, and social commentary that will intrigue US and SA audiences alike.
With a diverse cast of local and international familiar faces, this story is based on a real event, in an alternative universe.
The G20 summit is an annual event where 20 of the world’s economic leaders meet to discuss a variety of issues. In the film, the summit is hosted in Cape Town, where the summit is taken over by terrorists who hold the world leaders hostage and attempt to use deepfake AI technology to crash the markets and steal millions in Bitcoin.
U.S. President Danielle Sutton (played by Viola Davis) evades capture and has to use her governing and military experience to defend her family, her country and her fellow leaders.
Davis’ portrayal of the US president is different to any previous portrayal. Not only is she a strong, black woman, but she is also tough, hands-on and takes charge in violent situations, instead of relying on the Secret Service to shield her.
This is one of Davis’ most captivating performances; all her action scenes are great and the way her character maintains control throughout the film, despite the emotional and physical challenges thrown at her, is amazing.
Anthony Anderson and Marsai Martin play her husband and daughter, highlighting one of the many excellent casting choices made in this film.
Antony Starr plays the role of the main villain, Edward Rutledge, who leads the terrorist attack. Starr’s ability to play a ruthless antagonist is commendable.
Some familiar SA faces include Noxolo Dlamini, Emmanuel Castis, Colin Moss and Terence Bridgett.
Visually, the film is beautiful. Shot on location in Cape Town, it is fantastic to see our beautiful country showcased in a high-budget Hollywood film.
There is a small need to suspend disbelief at a few points, especially when Martin’s character, a teenage girl, possesses technological skills so strong that she is able to outwit the terrorists.
The action sequences are well shot.
Instead of multiple edits in each shot, there are multiple wide-angle shots that show the entire scene, and all the moves are visible.
It may be a coincidence that the G20 summit in the movie is hosted in Cape Town, when the actual G20 summit will be hosted in South Africa in November.
Either way, it is important that the film is not seen as an accurate portrayal of what SA has to offer with this type of event.
G20 is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video.
