In the ever-evolving landscape of Hollywood, where larger-than-life blockbusters frequently overshadow more grounded narratives, Daisy Ridley emerges as a beacon of versatility.
Her latest venture, “Cleaner,” directed by the seasoned Martin Campbell, finds Ridley stepping into the shoes of an action heroine who would make any fan of Bruce Willis’ John McClane or Tom Cruise’s Ethan Hunt sit up and take notice.
Ridley’s post-Star Wars career choices have been refreshingly diverse, demonstrating a commitment to roles that challenge conventional narratives and highlight her range as an actress.
From a domestic thriller like “Magpie” to the heartfelt “Young Woman and the Sea,” Ridley’s filmography is as eclectic as it is compelling.
With “Cleaner,” she adds another feather to her cap, embracing the cheesy yet undeniably fun spirit of 80s action films.
“Cleaner” doesn’t shy away from its influences, unabashedly channeling the adrenaline-pumping energy of “Die Hard.”
And while it may not rival the intricate plots of a “Mission: Impossible” movie, there’s an undeniable charm in its straightforwardness.
Ridley’s character, Joey, is not just a window cleaner but a reluctant hero forced into action when terrorists take over a high-rise in London.
This isn’t just another action flick; it’s a showcase of Ridley’s ability to carry a film with charisma and physical prowess.
Interestingly, the film attempts to weave in themes of eco-terrorism, with the antagonists dubbing themselves “Earth Revolution.”
This narrative choice, while ambitious, feels like a misstep, leading to a somewhat muddled message.
It raises the question: in an era where environmental issues dominate headlines, is there space for a more nuanced portrayal of such themes in mainstream cinema?
Perhaps “Cleaner” would have benefitted from focusing solely on Ridley’s character and her journey, rather than diluting its narrative with half-baked political commentary.
Despite its thematic shortcomings, “Cleaner” benefits from Campbell’s experienced direction.
Known for his work on films like “GoldenEye” and “Casino Royale,” Campbell knows his way around an action set piece.
The film’s tight choreography and Ridley’s commitment to her role ensure that audiences remain engaged from start to finish.
Ridley’s partnership with Ruth Gemmell, who plays a cop aiding her in the crisis, adds another layer to the narrative.
While their dynamic might not be the most fleshed-out aspect of the film, it provides a glimpse into Ridley’s ability to share the screen and build chemistry with her co-stars, even when the script doesn’t fully support it.
In the end, “Cleaner” is a testament to Daisy Ridley’s star power.
She injects life into a genre piece that might otherwise be dismissed as standard action fare.
Her performance ensures that the film is more than just a collection of clichés; it’s a reminder of the power of a strong lead to elevate a movie beyond its premise.
As Ridley continues to carve out her path in Hollywood, it’s clear that the force is indeed strong with her.
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