“Back in Action” marks Cameron Diaz’s much-anticipated return to the silver screen after a decade-long hiatus, starring with Jamie Foxx in a Netflix action-comedy that blends espionage thrills with familiar beats. Directed by Seth Gordon, known for Horrible Bosses and Baywatch (the movie) the film delivers a light-hearted romp that, while not groundbreaking, stays afloat due to its ability to effortlessly charm.
The story centres on Emily (Diaz) and Matt (Foxx), former CIA agents who traded their clandestine careers for suburban tranquillity to raise their children, Alice (McKenna Roberts) and Leo (Rylan Jackson). Their peaceful existence is disrupted when a past mission resurfaces, forcing the two back into the world of espionage. This premise, though verging on cliched, provides a solid foundation for the film’s action and humour.
Diaz is a highlight. Her comedic and action chops remain sharp, reminiscent of her performances in Charlie’s Angels and Knight and Day. She smoothly balances the demands of high-octane fight scenes with well-timed funniness, bringing an endless vibrant energy to the screen. Foxx complements her with a charismatic portrayal of a spy-turned-dad, and their on-screen chemistry adds depth to their characters’ relationship. The pair previously worked together in 2014’s Annie and their friendship shines through as a married couple.
The film’s action sequences are often set to classic Rat Pack and soul tunes adding a nostalgic flair. Scenes where the duo improvise with everyday items – such as using petrol pumps or the classic Mentos and Coke combination as weapons – inject creativity into the choreography. It’s a shame that the first half of the movie burns through these ideas, leaving the second half in a devolving smoulder.
Supporting performances are a mixed bag. Glenn Close shines as Emily’s estranged mother, Ginny. Her complicated relationship with Emily is nothing we haven’t seen before, but Close and Diaz know exactly what kind of film they are in and play up to it. Jamie Demetriou, as Ginny’s quirky partner Nigel, provides additional comic relief. In contrast, talents like Andrew Scott and Kyle Chandler are underutilised, their characters lacking depth and screen time, which feels like a missed opportunity given their capabilities.
Back in Action doesn’t break new ground in action-comedy cinema, but it doesn’t need to. The plot is predictable, but the film doesn’t aspire to subvert genre conventions; instead, it embraces them by aiming to entertain rather than surprise. Its strength lies in the dynamic performances of Diaz and Foxx, serving as a reminder of Diaz’s talent leaving audiences hoping she won’t wait another decade before her next project.
Back in Action is a fun, if formulaic, addition to Netflix’s lineup. It offers enough charm and entertainment to make for an enjoyable and low-effort movie night, especially for fans of its leading duo. While it may not become a classic, it succeeds in its primary mission: bringing Cameron Diaz back to the forefront and showcasing that her star power remains undiminished.
