Force of Nature

Movie Trailer

Release Date
June 30, 2020

Genre
Action, Thriller, Crime

Cast & Crew

• Mel Gibson as Ray Barrett
• Emile Hirsch as Officer Cardillo
• Kate Bosworth as Dr. Troy Barrett
• David Zayas as John the Baptist
• Stephanie Cayo as Officer Jess Peña
• Jasper Polish as Griffin

Director
Michael Polish

Other Movies Director is Known For

• The Astronaut Farmer (2006)
• Northfork (2003)
• Big Sur (2013)

Producer
Randall Emmett, George Furla, Luillo Ruiz

Writer
Cory Miller

Budget
Estimated $23 million

Production Company
Emmett/Furla/Oasis Films, Pimienta, Ingenious Media

Running Time
91 minutes

Languages
English

Maturity Rating
R (for violence and language throughout)

Content Advisory

• Strong language
• Intense violence
• Gunfights
• Crime elements

Movie Story
“Force of Nature” is a high-stakes action thriller set against the backdrop of a Category 5 hurricane in Puerto Rico. The film follows Officer Cardillo (Emile Hirsch), a disillusioned cop who is tasked with evacuating residents from an apartment building as the hurricane approaches. Among the holdouts is retired detective Ray Barrett (Mel Gibson), who refuses to leave despite the imminent danger, and his daughter, Dr. Troy Barrett (Kate Bosworth), who is determined to protect her father.

As the storm intensifies, the group becomes trapped in the building along with a crew of dangerous criminals led by the ruthless John the Baptist (David Zayas). The criminals are after a hidden fortune within the building, and they will stop at nothing to retrieve it. As the hurricane rages outside, the conflict inside escalates into a deadly game of cat and mouse.

Officer Cardillo, with the help of Ray and Dr. Troy, must navigate the treacherous environment of both the hurricane and the criminal gang to protect the residents and bring down the criminals. The film builds tension through a series of intense action sequences, including gunfights, hand-to-hand combat, and survival against the elements.

“Force of Nature” combines elements of a disaster movie with a crime thriller, creating a fast-paced and adrenaline-fueled story that explores themes of survival, redemption, and the lengths people will go to for money and power.

Special Effects
The special effects in “Force of Nature” are central to its action-packed narrative. The hurricane is depicted with impressive CGI, creating a visually chaotic and dangerous environment that enhances the tension. The film also employs practical effects and stunts to deliver realistic and intense action sequences, including shootouts and close-quarters combat within the confined spaces of the apartment building.

Box Office Performance
“Force of Nature” was released during the COVID-19 pandemic, which limited its theatrical release. The film was primarily distributed through video on demand (VOD) and found a larger audience through streaming platforms. It received mixed reviews, with some praising its action sequences while others critiqued its narrative and timing of release during a real-world disaster.

Filming Locations

• San Juan, Puerto Rico

Notable Quotes

• “You can’t fight a hurricane, but you can fight what’s inside.” – Ray Barrett
• “It’s not just the storm we have to survive.” – Officer Cardillo

Behind-the-Scenes
“Force of Nature” was filmed on location in Puerto Rico, which added authenticity to the hurricane setting. Mel Gibson, known for his roles in action films, brought his experience and intensity to the role of Ray Barrett, contributing to the film’s gritty atmosphere. The production faced challenges due to the real threat of hurricanes in the region, making the setting both realistic and relevant.

Awards

• None

Final Verdict
“Force of Nature” delivers a solid dose of action and thrills, particularly for fans of disaster movies and crime dramas. While the film may not be groundbreaking in its narrative, it provides enough excitement through its intense action sequences and the dynamic between its lead characters. Mel Gibson’s performance adds a layer of gravitas, making the film a decent watch for those seeking an adrenaline-pumping thriller. However, the timing of its release and its portrayal of disaster elements might not sit well with all viewers.

IMDb Rating
4.5/10