Netflix viewers are flocking to an ‘underrated crime thriller’ featuring Mel Gibson performing stunts that are ‘worthy of the Mad Max’ franchise.
Despite its original release in 2016, the film Blood Father has found a new surge of popularity since being added to the streaming giant’s catalogue. As of now, it ranks as one of the most-watched films on the platform, sitting at number six in the top ten films, just ahead of animated favourites DC League of Super-pets and Shrek the Third, reports Surrey Live.
In Blood Father, Mel Gibson takes on the role of John Link, an ex-convict who goes to great lengths to protect his estranged daughter from a drug cartel that’s hot on her trail. John must tap into his past connections and utilise his skills as an ex-criminal to ensure their survival.
The film also features some familiar faces who have since landed major roles in other films and TV shows, including Erin Moriarty from The Boys and Diego Luna from Rogue One and its spin-off Andor, as well as William H. Macy.
The film has garnered a remarkable 89% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with some pundits hailing it as a turning point in Mel Gibson’s career. A reviewer from The Independent noted: “Gibson is only 60 years old, a few years younger than Liam Neeson, and so could conceivably continue appearing in action movies like this for years to come. He clearly has the knack for it.”
Meanwhile, an impressed writer for The Express observed: “A raw B-movie in which Gibson blazes with dark charisma, edgy wit and the kind of suppressed anger that became his trademark.”
Movie buffs are heaping accolades on Mel Gibson’s standout performance, contributing to its rise up Netflix’s most-watched ladder. One online commentator exclaimed: “Mel Gibson was totally awesome in this movie – more entertaining to watch him kick continuous butt at his current age than when he did it more than 25 years ago. He’s still got it! Overall, the script and non-stop action is worth the 90 plus minutes of viewing. Mel makes up for anything that’s missing!”
Another fan described it as ‘an underrated crime thriller’. Adding to the chorus, a third contributed: “Gritty, violent with good performances from most of the cast. It’s got a naturalistic feel to it a bit like Training day or even Taxi driver, as opposed to a glossy Hollywood blockbuster which works well with the storyline.”
A spectator has suggested that Mel Gibson’s stunt work in a recent action title might just pave the way for a big-screen comeback to a legendary role he once held but has seen Tom Hardy take over. Their comment was nothing short of full endorsement: “An action title that showcases Mel Gibson’s capability of stunts worthy of Mad Max franchise cameo. Maybe not just a short role, but a reinstatement of his character. This action/crime flick is packed with drama and dynamic scenes that only the former can execute.”
Blood Father is streaming on Netflix.
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