Introduction
Michael Bay, the king of explosive action cinema, returns with his latest film, Ambulance. Known for his over-the-top, high-octane spectacles, Bay promises to deliver his signature “Bayhem” while “going small” compared to his previous ventures. In this review, we delve into the adrenaline-pumping ride of bank heists, high-speed chases, and relentless action that Ambulance offers.
A Return to Bayhem Roots
After the polarizing reception of his last film, 6 Underground, Bay seeks redemption with Ambulance. Drawing inspiration from the Danish film of the same name, the plot revolves around two brothers, played by Yahya Abdul-Mateen II and Jake Gyllenhaal. The former reluctantly agrees to rob a bank to fund his wife’s surgery, and the latter, bordering on psychopathy, joins in for a thrilling heist.
Chaos Unleashed: The Chase Begins
What starts as a bank heist quickly transforms into a heart-pounding, high-speed chase as the two brothers hijack an ambulance with a wounded policeman (Jackson White) and a paramedic (Eiza González) on board. As the LAPD relentlessly pursues them, the streets of Los Angeles become the grand stage for this adrenaline-fueled spectacle.
Bay’s Trademarks and Surprising Additions
Amidst the chaos, Bay’s hallmarks are unmistakable, from golden hour lighting to explosive set-pieces and clichéd dialogue. However, the director introduces some refreshing surprises. In a meta twist, characters reference previous Bay films, adding an amusing layer of self-awareness. Additionally, spiraling drone shots provide a dizzying new perspective to his visual style.
Thrills, Speed, and Non-Stop Action
Ambulance succeeds in its core mission: delivering relentless action and non-stop thrills. The camera maneuvers through speeding metal and fiery explosions, immersing the audience in the high-octane intensity. The pace is relentless, with Gyllenhaal’s character aptly describing it as “locomotives” that don’t stop.
The Downsides of Bayhem
While the action is electrifying, Bay’s devotion to pace occasionally sacrifices coherence in the editing, making some scenes hard to follow. The film also tackles serious themes of police militarization, which might feel out of place given the current mood in America. Moreover, certain moments verge on the absurd, including a farting dog becoming a pivotal plot point.
The Verdict: Ambulance – A Guilty Pleasure
In conclusion, Ambulance is a rollercoaster of Bayhem that delivers what fans expect: grand-scale action, high-speed chases, and larger-than-life spectacle. Bay’s tribute to the emergency services may be noisy, messy, and absurd at times, but it stands as his most gleefully entertaining effort in a decade. For those seeking a wild and exhilarating cinematic experience, buckle up for a heart-pounding ride with Ambulance.
