Name: Project Power
Genre: Action, Crime, Science Fiction
Released: 2020-08-14T00:00:00+00:00
Cast: Jamie Foxx, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Dominique Fishback, Rodrigo Santoro, Courtney B. Vance

The opening scene of Project Power—a New Orleans street erupting in chaos as a bank robber bursts into flames mid-heist—sets the tone for this frenetic Netflix action thriller. Directed by Henry Joost and Ariel Schulman, the film follows an unlikely trio: Jamie Foxx’s grizzled ex-soldier Art, Joseph Gordon-Levitt’s idealistic cop Frank, and Dominique Fishback’s street-smart teen Robin, as they unravel the conspiracy behind a drug that grants temporary superpowers.

What works best in Project Power is its visual flair and the chemistry between its leads. Foxx brings gravitas to Art, a man haunted by his past and desperate to save his daughter. Gordon-Levitt’s Frank is earnest but flawed, making for an engaging protagonist. Fishback, however, steals the show as Robin, infusing her character with vulnerability and ferocity in equal measure. The film’s New Orleans setting is more than just a backdrop; it’s a living, breathing character, its vibrant culture and history woven into the narrative.

The action sequences are visceral and inventive, particularly a standout scene where Frank uses his bulletproof power to shield civilians during a shootout. The film’s premise—superpowers as a commodity—is ripe for exploration, and Joost and Schulman lean into the moral ambiguity of their world with gusto. The political undertones, exploring corporate greed and government complicity, add depth to what could have been a straightforward action flick.

Yet Project Power stumbles in its execution. The screenplay, while packed with ideas, feels rushed and underdeveloped. The pacing is erratic, with key plot points introduced and resolved too quickly. The third act, in particular, descends into chaos, sacrificing coherence for spectacle. Some of the CGI effects, especially in the more fantastical power sequences, look cheap, undercutting the film’s otherwise polished aesthetic.

The film’s biggest misstep is its handling of its antagonist, Dr. Gardner (Amy Landecker). Her motivations and backstory are glossed over, making her a forgettable villain. The emotional core of Art’s quest for his daughter Tracy is compelling, but Tracy herself is underutilized, appearing only in the final act without sufficient buildup.

Project Power is a flawed but enjoyable thriller, elevated by its strong performances and bold visuals.