The Old Guard (2020) is a gripping action-fantasy film directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, based on the comic book series by Greg Rucka, who also wrote the screenplay for the film. It stars Charlize Theron, KiKi Layne, Matthias Schoenaerts, and Chiwetel Ejiofor, and it blends high-octane action with themes of immortality, loyalty, and the burdens of time.
The film centers around a group of immortals—highly skilled mercenaries who have lived for centuries. Led by Andy (Charlize Theron), they have fought in countless wars and conflicts, but their existence has remained a closely guarded secret. They heal from injuries and cannot die unless killed in battle. Their missions usually involve helping those in need, but they’re ultimately outcasts, burdened by their endless lives and the inability to settle down or grow old.
The peace of their existence is shattered when they are betrayed during a mission, leading to the discovery of their immortality by a mercenary group and a shadowy pharmaceutical company. The company sees their abilities as a source of profit, wanting to exploit their genetic makeup to unlock the secrets of immortality for commercial gain. Along with facing external threats, the group must also come to terms with the emotional weight of living centuries while watching the world around them change.
As the story unfolds, the group is introduced to a new member, Nile (KiKi Layne), a U.S. Marine who is recently “recruited” into their ranks after surviving a fatal injury, only to discover that she, too, is immortal. This marks a significant shift in the group’s dynamic, as Nile must now learn to navigate a life of eternal existence and reckon with the harsh realities that come with it.
The Old Guard is a powerful mix of action and emotional depth. The film has thrilling, fast-paced combat sequences, particularly one standout scene involving Theron’s character in a brutal hand-to-hand fight, showcasing her skill and physicality. The action is intense but also grounded in a sense of purpose, as the immortals fight not just for survival but for the moral cause of their missions. The film also balances the action with quieter moments that explore the philosophical and emotional weight of immortality. The immortals have lived through so much loss and heartbreak, and their pain is conveyed in thoughtful moments throughout the movie.
Charlize Theron delivers a standout performance as Andy, the hardened and weary leader of the group. She brings a mix of strength, vulnerability, and wisdom to the role, giving her character a sense of gravitas. KiKi Layne shines as Nile, bringing energy and emotional complexity to her character, who is grappling with her new reality. The chemistry between the two leads is palpable, and their evolving mentor-mentee relationship is one of the emotional cores of the film.
The film also explores themes of time, legacy, and the psychological toll of immortality. The immortals are often lonely and burdened by the centuries they’ve lived, having outlived loved ones and seen the world change in ways they can’t quite connect with. This theme is most powerfully felt through the character of Andy, who has lived for hundreds of years and struggles with the weight of endless existence. The film suggests that while immortality may seem like a gift, it’s also a curse that brings emotional and psychological challenges.
The Old Guard was praised for its strong female lead, compelling action sequences, and unique premise. It stands out in the action genre not only for its impressive combat choreography but also for its exploration of deeper emotional and philosophical questions about immortality, identity, and the nature of life. The movie’s diverse cast and inclusive representation also brought positive attention to its progressive themes.
The film’s success has already led to talks of a sequel, which would further explore the lives of the immortals and delve deeper into their backstories and the world they inhabit.
If you enjoy action films with substance and well-developed characters, The Old Guard is a must-watch. It combines adrenaline-pumping action with thought-provoking themes, making it both entertaining and emotionally resonant.
