The Old Guard - Film Review

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The Old Guard is a 2020 action-fantasy film directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, based on the graphic novel by Greg Rucka. It stars Charlize Theron as Andy (Andromache of Scythia), the leader of an immortal group of mercenaries who have been protecting humanity for centuries. The film combines high-octane action with thought-provoking themes of mortality, the purpose of life, and ethical dilemmas surrounding power and immortality.

The story opens with Andy and her team—Booker (Matthias Schoenaerts), Joe (Marwan Kenzari), and Nicky (Luca Marinelli)—all of whom possess the power to heal and resurrect after fatal wounds. This ability has allowed them to operate as a formidable team across centuries, engaging in covert missions for the greater good. However, after a betrayal in a recent mission, their existence is threatened when they realize that someone has discovered their secret.

The plot thickens when the group senses a new immortal, Nile Freeman (KiKi Layne), a U.S. Marine who has a near-death experience in Afghanistan and revives from a fatal wound. Andy recruits her, introducing her to the hidden world of immortals. However, Nile is reluctant, struggling with the idea of an immortal life filled with violence and loss. This new dynamic brings an emotional layer to the group, as Nile’s reactions and questions force the older immortals to reflect on their own reasons for continuing to fight.

Meanwhile, pharmaceutical executive Steven Merrick (Harry Melling) becomes obsessed with capturing the immortals to exploit their powers for profit. He enlists Copley (Chiwetel Ejiofor), a former CIA operative, to track them down, leading to a deadly confrontation. Copley’s motivations, however, are more nuanced, as he believes the immortals’ abilities could benefit humanity, though he ultimately comes to realize the dangers of their exploitation.

Andy (Charlize Theron): As the group’s leader, Andy is the most experienced and battle-hardened, having lived for thousands of years. Her weariness and cynicism stem from witnessing the suffering, betrayal, and cycles of violence humanity endures. Though initially seen as tough and indifferent, Andy’s journey in the film reveals her internal conflict, as she grapples with the purpose of her immortality and the constant loss of loved ones. Her connection with Nile revitalizes her purpose, forcing her to rediscover the importance of their role.

Nile Freeman (KiKi Layne): Nile is the film’s entry point for the audience, representing an ordinary person thrust into extraordinary circumstances. Her struggle with accepting her immortality, and the ethical implications of violence as a way of life, humanizes the group. Nile’s arc is one of acceptance and growth, transforming from a young, principled soldier to a compassionate and powerful immortal. Her presence also serves as a mirror to Andy, showing her leader the value of hope and faith in humanity.



Booker (Matthias Schoenaerts): A former Napoleonic soldier, Booker’s character represents the darker side of immortality. His sorrowful backstory, including the loss of his family and watching loved ones die, reveals the cost of eternal life. Booker’s betrayal of the group adds complexity to his character, as he believes death may offer them peace. His actions ultimately lead to his exile, a punishment that reflects the group’s loyalty and code of honour.

Joe (Marwan Kenzari) and Nicky (Luca Marinelli): As a couple who found each other during the Crusades, Joe and Nicky bring warmth and love to the story, proving that even in a violent world, love and companionship can endure. Their relationship offers a contrast to the isolation felt by other immortals, showcasing how love can provide resilience and purpose. Joe’s defence of Nicky when they are captured is a memorable scene, demonstrating the depth of their bond.

Steven Merrick (Harry Melling): As the film’s antagonist, Merrick is driven by greed and the desire to control immortality for profit. His character reflects society’s obsession with power and the ethical dangers of exploiting human life. Merrick’s ambition contrasts with the immortals’ code of using their abilities responsibly, creating a moral clash that drives the plot forward.

James Copley (Chiwetel Ejiofor): Copley’s character adds moral complexity to the story. He initially aids Merrick, believing the immortals’ powers could be a boon to humanity, particularly in curing diseases. However, his realization of Merrick’s true motives and the potential dangers of immortality exploitation leads him to ally with Andy’s team. Copley’s transformation speaks to the power of redemption and the importance of ethical responsibility.

The immortals’ unending lives force them to confront questions about purpose and the value of life. While they can save lives, they are also trapped in an endless cycle of violence and loss. This theme is embodied in Andy’s weariness, as she questions if their sacrifices make a difference.

Merrick’s desire to harness the immortals’ abilities for profit raises questions about the ethics of science, technology, and the exploitation of life. The film critiques the consequences of commodifying human life and the potential for abuse when power is unchecked.

Despite their powers, the immortals grapple with loneliness and the pain of isolation. The relationships between the characters, especially Joe and Nicky’s love, illustrate how human connection remains essential even for those who seem invulnerable. Nile’s presence revives the team’s sense of purpose and offers hope that they can make a difference in the world.

Copley’s character arc and Booker’s punishment reflect the film’s exploration of redemption. While immortality gives the characters the chance to amend their mistakes, it also burdens them with a legacy of violence. The concept of legacy, and what they leave behind, becomes a driving force for each character’s actions.

Gina Prince-Bythewood’s direction gives The Old Guard a grounded, intimate feel, despite its fantastical premise. The action scenes are choreographed to be realistic and brutal, emphasizing the immortals’ skill and experience. The film’s visual style combines gritty realism with stylized elements that reflect the immortals’ resilience and power. The scenes are often infused with a sense of melancholy, underscoring the emotional weight of the characters’ lives.

The film also incorporates flashbacks to showcase the characters’ pasts, adding depth to their backstories and emphasizing the burden of their long lives. These sequences are visually distinct, using muted colours and historical settings to contrast with the modern-day scenes, providing viewers with a glimpse into the centuries of experiences that shape the characters.

The soundtrack of The Old Guard combines contemporary and electronic music, enhancing the modern tone of the story while reflecting the characters' timeless qualities. The music complements the film’s emotional beats, adding intensity to the action sequences and melancholy to the reflective moments. The sound design emphasizes the physicality of the fights, grounding the action in a tactile realism.

In the climactic showdown, the immortals confront Merrick in his skyscraper, leading to a brutal fight that showcases their teamwork and resilience. Nile ultimately confronts Merrick, using her newfound understanding of her powers to outsmart and defeat him, symbolizing her acceptance of her role within the team. The final scene suggests that the immortals have rekindled their purpose, while Nile’s decision to stay represents her commitment to the team and the mission.

The film concludes with a setup for potential sequels, as Booker, now in exile, encounters a former ally long believed dead. This revelation hints at new challenges and further exploration of the immortals' pasts and powers.

The Old Guard received positive reviews for its strong performances, particularly from Charlize Theron and KiKi Layne, as well as its diverse cast and thoughtful exploration of immortality. Audiences appreciated the balance of action and character-driven storytelling, while critics praised Prince-Bythewood’s fresh take on the action genre. The film’s success on Netflix led to discussions about potential sequels, expanding on the world introduced in the first instalment.

In summary, The Old Guard is a unique action film that combines intense, well-choreographed sequences with emotional storytelling and philosophical themes. Its focus on complex characters, ethical dilemmas, and the impact of immortality on the human psyche distinguishes it from traditional action films, offering a reflective, nuanced perspective on power, purpose, and connection.

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