My initial expectations for the film Nobody were quite different from the final product. While preconceptions can sometimes lead to disappointment when a film deviates significantly from its anticipated genre, in this case, the divergence was a pleasant surprise. I recall a similar experience reviewing The Man Who Killed Hitler and then the Bigfoot starring Sam Elliott. I expected a campy action spectacle akin to Sharknado, but instead, it was a surprisingly serious and deliberately paced drama. Nobody, I assumed, would center on an ordinary individual reaching a breaking point, and while that element is present, the film incorporates a unique twist that elevates it into a remarkably entertaining experience.
The seemingly unassuming Hutch (Bob Odenkirk) experiences a home invasion one night. Despite having an opportunity to neutralize the intruders, he hesitates. His family and acquaintances perceive him as timid. However, they are unaware of Hutch’s true capabilities, and the burglary serves as a catalyst, reawakening his desire for his past life. When Hutch subsequently confronts the wrong individuals, the situation escalates, drawing the attention of the Russian mafia, who then target him and his family.
The influence of the John Wick screenwriter on Nobody is evident, particularly in the film’s structure. Hutch’s background as a black ops operative for the American government, tasked with eliminating otherwise unreachable threats, is a key element. A pivotal event disrupts his mundane existence, leading to a conflict with the Russian mafia. Beyond this premise and the meticulously choreographed violence, the films diverge. Bob Odenkirk (Better Call Saul) may not be the archetypal action hero, but this is precisely what contributes to Nobody’s appeal. He is consistently underestimated and dismissed until his adversaries face the consequences.
Odenkirk delivers a compelling performance in the lead role, with his comedic timing adding an additional layer of depth. Another unexpected casting choice is Christopher Lloyd (Doc Brown in Back to the Future) as Hutch’s father. Seeing Lloyd, at 84 years old, wielding an array of shotguns is a genuine highlight.
A notable weakness lies in the portrayal of Connie Nielsen’s character, which feels underdeveloped. The characterization is regrettably generic and uninspired. While Nielsen delivers her usual solid performance, the role itself lacks substance. The script, too, can be considered somewhat lean, but the engaging action sequences and relentless pacing largely compensate for this shortcoming. At 92 minutes, Nobody benefits from a concise runtime. In an era of increasingly lengthy films, this brevity allows the narrative and action to maintain momentum without becoming tedious.
The UHD edition offers exceptional quality. The 4K picture with HDR delivers a sharp and stable image, free from artifacts or color bleeding. The contrast between light and dark is remarkably well-defined, representing a visually impressive presentation. The Dolby Atmos soundtrack provides an immersive audio experience. Gunshots resonate convincingly, and the overall sound design enhances the impact of the action sequences. The supplemental materials include several short documentaries that offer additional insights into the film’s production. Commentary tracks are also included, which is a welcome addition.
In conclusion, Nobody is a highly recommended viewing experience. This action film distinguishes itself through its engaging narrative, strong performances, and well-integrated comedic elements. The exceptional quality of the UHD edition further enhances its appeal.
