📋 Movie Overview

• Title: Those Who Wish Me Dead

• Release Date: May 14, 2021 (US – in theaters & HBO Max)

• Genre: Action, Thriller

• Director: Taylor Sheridan

• Cast:

  • Angelina Jolie (Hannah Faber – smokejumper)

  • Finn Little (Connor – a boy on the run)

  • Nicholas Hoult & Aidan Gillen (assassins)

  • Jon Bernthal, Medina Senghore, Jake Weber

• Where To Watch: HBO Max, Fandango, and other digital platforms

1. Plot Summary

Connor, a young boy who witnesses the murder of his father due to a sensitive financial document, escapes into the vast forests of Montana. He encounters Hannah, a fire jumper dealing with past trauma. Together, they must survive not only two cold-blooded assassins but also a rapidly spreading wildfire, while local law enforcement and loved ones race to protect them.

2. Notable Elements

• Intense wildfire visuals: The fire scenes are strikingly realistic and add overwhelming tension.

• Emotional bond: The relationship between Hannah and Connor brings emotional weight and character depth.

• Ruthless assassins: Nicholas Hoult and Aidan Gillen deliver chilling performances that enhance the suspense.

• Standout supporting cast: Jon Bernthal and Medina Senghore provide powerful scenes, especially one where a pregnant woman fights back against the killers.

3. Themes and Messages

• Overcoming fear and guilt: Hannah’s emotional journey shows how people can redeem themselves through courage and care for others.

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• Survival against natural and human threats: The film cleverly uses the wildfire as a metaphorical and physical obstacle.

• Sacrifice and duty: It highlights the moral responsibility to protect the innocent, no matter the cost.

4. Personal Impressions

👍 Strengths:

• Angelina Jolie is convincing as a battle-hardened yet emotionally vulnerable lead.

• The forest fire visuals are gritty and intense.

• The supporting characters—especially Medina Senghore—add unexpected layers to the story.

👎 Weaknesses:

• The plot occasionally feels scattered with too many character arcs.

• Some decisions by the villains feel illogical and underdeveloped.

• The pacing can feel uneven between character drama and action sequences.

5. Audience Recommendations

• Highly recommended for: Fans of survival thrillers, disaster films, and Angelina Jolie’s action roles.

• Less suited for: Viewers expecting tightly written narratives or deeply layered character psychology.

6. Conclusion & Rating

Those Who Wish Me Dead offers a gripping ride through wildfire-strewn forests, with Angelina Jolie leading a tale of redemption, survival, and resilience. While the script has its flaws, the emotional beats and fiery spectacle make it worth a watch.

⭐️ Rating: 3.5 out of 5 starsc