Movie Review: “Take Cover” (2024)

“Take Cover” is a 2024 action thriller featuring Scott Adkins, an actor renowned for his skill in delivering fast-paced, physical performances in genre films. If you’ve seen his previous work, you’ll know what to expect: intense, hard-hitting action sequences that showcase his athleticism and martial arts expertise. But while Adkins brings his usual grit to the table, this film falls disappointingly short, landing as one of his most lackluster outings.

The film centers around a classic assassin narrative—a familiar setup, but one that relies heavily on the charm and execution of the plot, characters, and action to stand out. Unfortunately, this movie stumbles over a poorly written script that’s not only derivative but often nonsensical, with plot choices that make it feel more like a parody than a serious thriller. The script’s attempt to weave in odd, often illogical plot points is jarring, taking viewers out of the moment and overshadowing what could have been a more straightforward action experience.

While Adkins’ performance is serviceable and consistent with his typical roles, the weak script leaves him with little room to bring depth or nuance to his character. Adkins, who usually carries these roles well, is simply handed a paint-by-numbers character with a storyline that seems almost automated. Rather than adding tension or intrigue, the plot meanders through predictable turns with no real payoff, making it hard for even Adkins’ talent to salvage the film.

A particularly distracting element in “Take Cover” is Alice Eve’s portrayal of the assassin’s handler. Eve is a strong actor, but here her performance feels out of place. Her role—both small and underwritten—lacks conviction, with a voice that doesn’t quite match the tone required. Her presence, while potentially well-intentioned, detracts from the film’s cohesion and comes across as a misfire in both casting and direction.

The film’s action sequences, usually Adkins’ strongest asset, feel uninspired and repetitive. Rather than incorporating interesting choreography or inventive set pieces, the scenes rely on bland, unimaginative moves that fail to bring the adrenaline-fueled excitement fans expect from an Adkins-led film. Given that the action is meant to be the movie’s highlight, this lack of engagement is a significant letdown.

Ultimately, “Take Cover” seems to have invested in names like Eve while neglecting core elements like script development and direction. This results in a film that lacks both coherence and excitement, leaving even dedicated Adkins fans likely to feel disappointed. In the end, a better-written story and a director with a clearer vision could have given Adkins a more effective platform to shine. As it stands, “Take Cover” is a missed opportunity, offering little beyond the bare minimum for fans of the genre.