The opening sequence of Red Notice (2021) is a whirlwind of globetrotting heists, introducing us to the film’s three central characters with a flashy, high-stakes art theft in Rome. Directed by Rawson Marshall Thurber, this Netflix original stars Dwayne Johnson as John Hartley, an FBI profiler; Ryan Reynolds as Nolan Booth, a notorious art thief; and Gal Gadot as Sarah Black / The Bishop, the world’s most wanted criminal.

What follows is a loosely plotted action-comedy that leans heavily into its star power. The film’s premise—an Interpol-issued Red Notice alerting global law enforcement to hunt down the world’s most wanted criminals—is intriguing, but the execution often feels like a pastiche of better films. The script, also written by Thurber, cobbles together scenes that feel lifted from other heist movies, with little originality in its structure or pacing.

The chemistry between Johnson, Reynolds, and Gadot is undeniably entertaining. Their verbal sparring and physical comedy land many laugh-out-loud moments, particularly in the film’s early acts. Reynolds’ quick-witted banter and Johnson’s imposing presence create a dynamic that drives much of the film’s humor. Gadot, while equally charismatic, often feels sidelined by the script’s focus on the Johnson-Reynolds rivalry.

The action sequences are well-choreographed and visually impressive, with standout set pieces including a high-speed chase through Venice and a climactic showdown in Rome. The cinematography, particularly during these action beats, is sleek and stylish without being overly flashy. Steve Jablonsky’s score complements the film’s energetic tone, though it occasionally veers into generic action-movie territory.

However, Red Notice stumbles when it tries to weave its characters together into a coherent plot. The twists and turns often feel contrived, with motivations that strain credibility. The film’s attempt to blend romance, comedy, and action results in tonal whiplash, particularly in the latter half where the story takes an abrupt turn into melodrama.

The film’s pacing is another issue. Despite its two-hour runtime, Red Notice often feels rushed, particularly in its attempts to develop its characters and their relationships. The script glosses over key plot points, leaving gaps in logic that are hard to ignore. For example, the film’s central heist—ostensibly the catalyst for the entire story—is resolved with a deus ex machina that undermines the tension built throughout the film.

Ultimately, Red Notice is a fun, if flawed, action-comedy that benefits from its star-studded cast and impressive set pieces.