A Detailed Review of the Film Panama (2022)
Panama, directed by Mark Neveldine and released in 2022, is a gritty action thriller set against the volatile political backdrop of 1989 Central America. Loosely inspired by real events during the U.S. invasion of Panama, the film stars Cole Hauser and Mel Gibson in a story of covert operations, shifting loyalties, and moral ambiguity. With a combination of intense action, espionage drama, and political intrigue, Panama attempts to offer a modern-day war thriller with echoes of classic mercenary tales.
The film follows James Becker (played by Cole Hauser), a former Marine suffering from emotional scars after a personal tragedy. He is recruited by Stark (played by Mel Gibson), a seasoned and manipulative CIA operative, for a clandestine arms deal in Panama just as the region teeters on the edge of collapse. Becker’s mission quickly becomes entangled in a web of deceit, corruption, and violence, and he must navigate a dangerous world where allegiances shift quickly and survival depends on cunning and ruthlessness.
One of Panama’s strongest elements is the performance of Cole Hauser, who brings a brooding intensity to the role of Becker. Haunted and unpredictable, Becker embodies the classic antihero archetype. Hauser’s physical presence and emotionally restrained portrayal add weight to the character, making him believable as both a soldier and a man wrestling with his own demons. Mel Gibson, meanwhile, delivers a charismatic, slyly humorous performance as Stark, injecting a sense of old-school CIA swagger into the narrative.
Visually, Panama embraces a gritty, stylized look. The cinematography features sun-soaked landscapes, dense jungles, and urban chaos that mirror the instability of the region. The direction by Neveldine leans heavily into fast-paced editing and a raw aesthetic that heightens the sense of danger and unpredictability. The action scenes, though not overly abundant, are sharp and intense—ranging from shootouts to high-stakes confrontations and shadowy negotiations.
Thematically, Panama touches on the cost of interventionist foreign policy, the blurred line between patriotism and manipulation, and the personal toll of endless conflict. However, while the film attempts to position itself as politically aware, it sometimes glosses over the complexities of the historical context. The narrative remains focused on Becker’s personal arc, which works for character development but leaves the larger geopolitical implications underexplored.
The film’s weaknesses lie in its uneven pacing and somewhat fragmented script. Some plot developments feel rushed or underdeveloped, and secondary characters are mostly archetypes rather than fully realized individuals. At times, the dialogue can veer into cliché territory, especially during scenes of moral confrontation. Still, the film maintains a gripping tone, driven largely by its lead performances and tense atmosphere.
In conclusion, Panama is a solid, if imperfect, entry in the modern action-thriller genre. It delivers a dark, character-driven journey through the shadows of American foreign policy, elevated by strong performances and dynamic visuals. While it may not fully unpack the political nuances of its setting, it succeeds in crafting an engaging and atmospheric thriller that fans of military dramas and espionage films will likely appreciate.
