In The Bluff, director Frank E Flowers mounts a violent, R-rated pirate drama that promises grit but delivers uneven storytelling. The film roars to life whenever Priyanka Chopra storms the screen, transforming from a quiet Caribbean fishwife into the feared pirate legend Bloody Mary. However, despite flashes of visceral brilliance, the film ultimately collapses under the weight of a thin, predictable plot. While the action hits hard, the narrative rarely does.
A Brutal Hero in a Wafer-Thin World
Set in a scenic Caribbean town, the story follows Ercell Borden, whose husband (played by Ismael Cruz Córdova) falls into the clutches of ruthless pirate Connor, portrayed by Karl Urban. Consequently, Ercell must resurrect her violent past to protect her family. The premise echoes the spirit of Die Hard, framing Priyanka as both underdog and unstoppable force. Although she appears physically outmatched, the screenplay equips her with near-mythic combat skills. As a result, she dominates every confrontation, holding the film together through sheer screen presence.
Violence Without Narrative Weight
Notably, The Bluff embraces stylised brutality reminiscent of Kill Bill: Volume 1. Blood splatters, limbs fly, and the choreography feels raw and relentless. Yet, while the violence shocks and occasionally thrills, it cannot mask the film’s formulaic structure. Predictable twists and telegraphed character deaths dilute the tension. Unlike the layered storytelling seen in Animal, which redefined hyper-violent drama in India, this pirate saga struggles to rise above mediocrity. Therefore, despite its stylistic ambition, the film never fully earns its brutality.
A Stellar Cast, Wasted Potential
Meanwhile, the supporting cast receives little room to shine. Karl Urban appears trapped in shades of his The Boys persona, while Temuera Morrison barely registers impact. Ultimately, Priyanka Chopra remains the film’s only enduring strength. She injects humanity into a role drenched in bloodshed, balancing ferocity with emotional depth. Unfortunately, even her commitment cannot rescue a screenplay that feels stretched across its two-hour runtime.
