Fortress
Movie Trailer
Release Date
December 17, 2021
Genre
Action, Thriller
Cast & Crew
- Jesse Metcalfe as Paul Michaels
- Bruce Willis as Robert Michaels
- Chad Michael Murray as Frederick Balzary
- Kelly Greyson as Kate Taylor
- Shannen Doherty as Sandra
Director
James Cullen Bressack
Other Movies Director is Known For
- Beyond the Law (2019)
- Blood Craft (2019)
- Pernicious (2014)
Producer
Randall Emmett, George Furla, Luillo Ruiz, Mark Stewart
Writer
Alan Horsnail
Budget
$20 million (estimated)
Production Company
EFO Films, Lionsgate, Grindstone Entertainment Group
Running Time
100 minutes
Languages
English
Maturity Rating
R
Content Advisory
- Strong violence
- Language
- Brief nudity
Movie Story
Fortress is an action-packed thriller that follows the story of Robert Michaels, a retired CIA agent who lives in a top-secret resort in the mountains designed as a safe haven for high-profile individuals with dangerous enemies. His quiet life is disrupted when his estranged son, Paul Michaels, visits him, unknowingly leading a group of mercenaries to the secluded fortress. The group, led by Frederick Balzary, a vengeful criminal with a personal vendetta against Robert, infiltrates the compound, setting off a deadly game of cat and mouse.
As the situation escalates, Robert is forced to tap into his lethal skills to protect his son and the other residents of the fortress. The movie combines high-stakes action with tense psychological drama as father and son navigate their strained relationship while facing the relentless onslaught of Balzary’s men.
The plot thickens as the true motive behind Balzary’s attack is revealed, bringing to light dark secrets from Robert’s past that have dangerous implications for everyone involved. The action sequences are intense, featuring a mix of hand-to-hand combat, gunfights, and strategic defenses, all set against the backdrop of the isolated and heavily fortified mountain retreat.
Fortress explores themes of redemption, the consequences of a violent past, and the complexities of father-son relationships, with Bruce Willis delivering a solid performance as the battle-hardened yet emotionally conflicted Robert Michaels.
Special Effects
The special effects in Fortress are largely practical, with a focus on realistic action scenes. The use of pyrotechnics, stunt choreography, and practical effects create a gritty and immersive experience. While not heavy on CGI, the effects that are used effectively enhance the high-octane atmosphere of the film.
Box Office Performance
Fortress had a limited theatrical release and was simultaneously made available on streaming platforms. While it did not make a significant impact at the box office, it found a modest audience among fans of action-thrillers and Bruce Willis’s dedicated following.
Filming Locations
- Puerto Rico
Notable Quotes
- “You can’t hide forever, Dad. They’re coming for you.” – Paul Michaels
- “Sometimes, the past doesn’t stay buried.” – Robert Michaels
Behind-the-Scenes
Fortress is the first film in a planned trilogy, with Bruce Willis reprising his role in the sequels. The film was shot in Puerto Rico, taking advantage of the island’s diverse landscapes to create the isolated fortress setting. Director James Cullen Bressack worked closely with the stunt team to ensure the action sequences were both realistic and engaging.
Awards
- No notable awards.
Final Verdict
Fortress delivers what it promises: a straightforward action-thriller with a solid performance from Bruce Willis. While the film doesn’t break new ground in terms of plot or innovation, it provides a satisfying watch for those who enjoy high-stakes action and intense, character-driven drama. Its exploration of father-son dynamics adds an emotional layer to the otherwise action-heavy narrative.
IMDb Rating
3.2/10