Boss Level, a total blast

Director Joe Carnahan delivers an exhilarating sci-fi romp with Boss Level, cementing himself as a master of the genre.

With wit and heart to spare, he infuses a potentially hackneyed “trapped in a time loop” premise with a beating heart and stunning sequences worthy of the greats.

Frank Grillo dominates the screen as an action star in the role of a special forces soldier who gets caught reliving the very day he died. But the real alchemy comes from Naomi Watts, a nuanced partner who illuminates the chaos with her soul.

Carnahan maintains a breakneck pace while finding poignant human drama amid the explosive scenes, a perfect balance that eludes less experienced directors.

From its euphoric beginning to the final catharsis, Boss Level offers big laughs, big stunts and valuable reflections on life.

This is mass cinema elevated by storytellers who respect the audience's intellect as much as their need for entertainment. I predict it will achieve lasting cult status.

Boss Level is, quite simply, a total blast from start to brilliant finish.

At the box office, Boss Level had to contend with the growing COVID pandemic and grossed a respectable $15 million against its $43 million budget in its brief theatrical run in early 2021.