Story: Kyrah and Issac, former elite operatives turned lovers, go on the run with their son after their old team puts a bounty on their heads. Hunted by their ex-boss Jack Cinder, they must fight to protect their family and confront their past.

Review: ‘Shadow Force’ is a film that feels all too familiar, offering little new within its overdone premise. It’s a standard action thriller that doesn’t bother to break any molds. The plot takes too many liberties, never properly explaining key elements, and leaves the audience to fill in the gaps. While the action sequences may keep you engaged momentarily, the film quickly loses its grip, leaving you indifferent to what’s happening on screen. Despite the high stakes and potential for a gripping story, the lack of depth makes it a forgettable experience.

The plot centers on Kyrah Owens (Kerry Washington) and Issac Saar (Omar Sy), two former elite operatives who worked for a covert unit called Shadow Force. When they fall in love and have a child, they decide to leave their violent world behind to protect their son. However, their past catches up with them when Isaac’s identity is revealed while saving their son during a bank robbery. Once their former boss, Jack Cinder (Mark Strong), discovers they are alive, he places a bounty on their heads and sends a team of skilled assassins to kill them. The couple, forced to go on the run, must rely on their instincts and combat skills to survive. From Mexico to Spain to Bolivia, the action-packed journey unfolds with high-speed chases and near-death encounters.

The film suffers from a lack of clarity, particularly when it comes to its central premise. The audience is never truly given an understanding of what Shadow Force is or what Kyrah and Isaac have been doing before the events of the film. If their crime is simply falling in love and wanting to raise a family, it feels like a flimsy excuse for a plot. While the action sequences are thrilling, the narrative leaves much to be desired. The few moments of warmth, especially between Kyrah, Issac, and their son Ky, bring a brief sense of emotional connection. Issac’s use of French adds an interesting layer to his character, giving a natural, authentic feel to the portrayal, but these moments are overshadowed by a confusing and shallow storyline.

Kerry Washington’s performance is a major letdown, especially when compared to her past work. Her portrayal feels uninspired and flat, lacking the depth and intensity needed for such a high-stakes role. It’s hard to believe this is the same actress who delivered a brilliant performance in her previous film ‘The Six Triple Eight.’ Mark Strong, on the other hand, brings a sense of menace and gravitas to the character of Jack Cinder, proving to be a strong presence in his role as the antagonist. But it’s Omar Sy who stands out in this film. Despite being French, Sy is perfectly at ease in an English-language film, delivering a performance that balances both toughness and warmth effortlessly. His character feels real, and his natural charisma elevates the film, making him the one redeeming aspect.

‘Shadow Force’ never fully capitalizes on the potential its premise offers. It stays on the surface level, failing to dive deeper into its characters or plot. While it delivers on action, it never goes the extra mile, and in the end, it remains a forgettable, average film.

India’s ageing population is steadily growing, and as joint families fragment and urban lives grow busier, the emotional needs of the elderly are often sidelined. Nandita Roy and Shiboprosad Mukherjee – known for their sensitive, socially aware films like Bela Seshe and Posto – tackle this shifting reality in their latest, Aamar Boss. The result is heartfelt and engaging, though occasionally uneven.
The title Aamar Boss cleverly captures the film’s essence – a role reversal where an ageing mother asserts her independence, not just as a parent, but as a person with purpose. This duality of affection and quiet rebellion sets the tone.
The story begins with Shubhra (Rakhee Gulzar), a widowed, retired nurse with too much time and too little to do. Her son Animesh (Shiboprosad Mukherjee), busy with his publishing job, struggles to be present despite his love for her. Seeking purpose, Shubhra starts interning at his office – only to dream bigger. She launches a startup to empower other seniors, stirring both admiration and conflict at home.
The first half unfolds with charm and warmth, bolstered by crisp cinematography. A standout moment features a sunset over the city skyline – a quiet, poignant exchange between mother and son that speaks volumes. However, the second half loses momentum. Comic relief, particularly from Sabitri Chatterjee, offers some sparkle but stretches a bit long. The narrative rushes key developments, leaving certain arcs underexplored. A few forced romantic subplots – and forgettable songs – distract from the core story.
Rakhee’s return is the film’s biggest win. She commands the screen with grace; her expressive silences are deeply moving. Her scenes with Shiboprosad – filled with unspoken tension and mutual respect – are some of the film’s best. While Shiboprosad is solid as the pragmatic son, his romantic track doesn’t quite land. Gourab Chatterjee and Sauraseni Maitra add youthful energy, and the supporting cast – Shruti Das, Avery Singha Roy, Uma Banerjee, and Aishwarya Sen – shine in moments of genuine camaraderie, particularly among the women.
Aamar Boss aligns well with the Roy-Mukherjee filmography. Just as Bela Seshe explored late-life love and Posto redefined parenting roles, this film asks: What does relevance mean in old age? It suggests that retirement can be a beginning, not an end. Yet, the storytelling occasionally feels crowded – multiple subplots compete for attention, diluting the impact.
Despite its flaws, Aamar Boss resonates. It’s a timely reminder that caregiving is not just about comfort, but about respect, agency, and space. Whether you’re part of the sandwich generation or an older viewer seeking representation, the film offers moments of recognition – and quiet power.

Padakkalam movie review: It combines college life with supernatural elements as Jithin and friends suspect a professor’s strange behavior.