While filming a new fitness video, former army ranger Wyatt (Peter Jae), his heavily pregnant wife Becca (Galadriel Stineman), and gym co-owner Levi (Josh Kelly) come under attack from a group of heavies. Thinking it’s a robbery, Wyatt attempts to defend the place, with Becca shot in the ruckus. Before Becca dies, doctors are able to save the child, who a distraught Wyatt names Becca. Vowing vengeance, Wyatt and Levi set out to track down those responsible, the trail leading them to the depths of the underworld, all while documenting their fight for Becca to understand when she’s older.
The latest from prolific director James Cullen Bressack (To Jennifer) is presented in the found-footage style, with footage shot on bodycams and phones. Of course, he’s no stranger to the format, but despite this lo-fi direction, there’s no shortage of action. Jae, in particular, excels when it comes to striking the moves to pull off a convincing fight scene.
There’s more to the story as it goes along, which it does at a great pace, with the inevitable twists and turns. The first-person shots during the well-choreographed fight scenes allow for an immersiveness not usually present in action movies.
While some of the acting is a bit melodramatic, it’s a solid thriller that won’t disappoint fans of martial arts and full-on fist-fight movies.
THE WORKOUT screened at Fantastic Fest 2024
