Olympus Has Fallen, released in theaters on March 22, 2013, is a high-octane action thriller that delivers precisely what it promises: a relentless, pulse-pounding experience. With Gerard Butler leading a strong ensemble cast, the film offers a visceral and undeniably entertaining cinematic ride.
Butler stars as Mike Banning, a disgraced former Secret Service agent who finds himself as the last line of defense when a group of North Korean terrorists seize the White House, codenamed “Olympus,” and take the President, Benjamin Asher (Aaron Eckhart), hostage. From the moment the attack begins, the film plunges into a whirlwind of intense action sequences, showcasing Banning’s resourcefulness and combat skills.
Butler delivers a commanding performance, embodying the rugged and determined hero with a gritty intensity. He convincingly portrays Banning’s unwavering commitment to protecting the President and reclaiming the White House.
Eckhart provides a solid performance as President Asher, capturing the character’s strength and resilience in the face of extreme adversity.
The supporting cast is equally impressive. Morgan Freeman, as Speaker of the House Allan Trumbull, brings his characteristic gravitas to the role, providing a sense of authority and urgency to the situation. Angela Bassett, as Secret Service Director Lynne Jacobs, delivers a strong and determined performance. Robert Forster, Cole Hauser, Melissa Leo, Ashley Judd and Dylan McDermott add to the film’s ensemble strength.
Director Antoine Fuqua crafts a visually striking and action-packed film, utilizing dynamic camera work and intense fight choreography to create a sense of unrelenting tension. The film’s action sequences are visceral and impactful, delivering a raw and realistic portrayal of the chaos unfolding within the White House.
Gerard Butler in Olympus Has Fallen (Photo/Millennium Films)
Reception for Olympus Has Fallen
Olympus Has Fallen grossed $30.4 million on its opening weekend, finishing second at the box office behind The Croods ($43.6 million).
The film would gross $170.3 million worldwide.
A sequel, titled London Has Fallen, was released on March 4, 2016 and the third film in the series, Angel Has Fallen, was released on August 23, 2019.
Legacy
Olympus Has Fallen is unabashedly a genre film, embracing its action-thriller roots with enthusiasm. It doesn’t pretend to be anything more than a thrilling ride, and it excels at delivering precisely that. While it might not be a film that delves into deep philosophical themes, it provides a satisfying dose of adrenaline-fueled entertainment.
The film’s pacing is relentless, keeping the audience engaged from start to finish. The tension builds steadily, culminating in a series of intense and satisfying action sequences. If you’re looking for a film that delivers pure, unadulterated action, “Olympus Has Fallen” is a must-watch. It’s a thrilling cinematic experience that leaves you breathless.
