Gareth Evans’ explosive new action thriller, Havoc, is now streaming on Netflix, showcasing Tom Hardy in a blood-soaked role that has garnered mixed reviews. The film, which marks Evans’ return to the action genre after more than a decade, has been described as one of the bloodiest and most violent movies released in recent years.
Set against the backdrop of a corrupt New York City, Havoc follows Patrick Walker (played by Hardy), a homicide detective embroiled in a web of crime and deception. Walker is on the payroll of real estate mogul Lawrence Beaumont, portrayed by Academy Award winner Forest Whitaker, who is intent on profiting from the city’s gentrification.
As the story unfolds, Walker finds himself caught between his criminal past and a desperate bid for redemption. The plot kicks into high gear when Beaumont’s son, Charlie (Justin Cornwell), and his girlfriend, Mia (Quelin Sepulveda), become embroiled in a drug heist gone wrong. After stealing a truckload of cocaine, they attempt to sell it to a gang of Triads, leading to catastrophic consequences.
In a violent confrontation, Tsui, the son of a notorious Triad boss (Yeo Yann Yann), is killed, prompting a vengeful pursuit led by his mother, known as Mother. As the stakes rise, Walker is forced to navigate a treacherous landscape filled with betrayal and bloodshed.
Critics have noted that while Havoc delivers relentless action, it often lacks depth and character development. The film is filled with gratuitous violence, and the reviewer from Geek Vibes Nation remarked, "Havoc is among the bloodiest, most gratuitously violent, and overwrought action pictures in years." This sentiment echoes the opinions of many who feel that the film prioritizes shock value over storytelling.
Despite its shortcomings, the film has been praised for its audacious tone and frenetic pacing. Evans, known for his meticulous approach, has crafted a visually striking experience that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. However, the reviewer criticized the execution as "cartoonish" and overly reliant on CGI, stating that it detracted from the film's potential impact.
The journey of Havoc to Netflix was not without its challenges. Originally announced in 2021, the film faced multiple delays due to the Hollywood labor strikes and the need for extensive reshoots. Evans, who co-produced the film alongside Hardy, expressed his dissatisfaction with the initial cut, prompting him to seek additional filming days to achieve his vision.
Filming wrapped up in October 2021, but the film was not released until April 2025. Reshoots, scheduled for 2023, were complicated by the SAG-AFTRA strike, which lasted 118 days. Evans described the delays as a result of "scheduling issues, strikes and more scheduling issues," but he remained optimistic about the film's eventual release.
The film's trailer dropped in February 2025, generating anticipation among fans of Evans and Hardy. As one of Netflix's most significant releases of the year, Havoc aims to captivate audiences with its blend of action and drama.
In exploring the film's themes, Havoc delves into the complexities of crime and redemption. Walker’s struggle to escape his past is mirrored in the chaotic events surrounding the drug deal. As he attempts to protect Charlie and Mia from the vengeful Triad, Walker’s character grapples with his own moral dilemmas, ultimately seeking a path to redemption.
The film’s reception has been mixed, with a Rotten Tomatoes score of 60%, a Metacritic rating of 57%, and an IMDb score of 6.0/10. Critics have pointed out that while the action is intense, the lack of redeemable characters and the overwhelming violence may leave viewers feeling desensitized.
As the narrative unfolds, viewers witness the brutal consequences of betrayal and the impact of Walker’s choices. The film culminates in a climactic showdown that echoes the intensity of classic action thrillers. In a series of explosive firefights reminiscent of John Wick, Walker confronts his past and the corrupt forces that threaten his future.
As the dust settles, the film leaves audiences pondering the implications of Walker’s actions. Will he find redemption or succumb to the chaos that surrounds him? The film’s ending remains ambiguous, leaving room for interpretation and reflection on the nature of morality in a corrupt world.
Despite its flaws, Havoc showcases Evans’ unique directorial style and Hardy’s commitment to his role. The film serves as a testament to the challenges of creating a compelling action narrative while balancing the demands of modern filmmaking.
In summary, Havoc is a visceral experience that pushes the boundaries of action cinema. While it may not resonate with all viewers, it undoubtedly cements Evans’ place in the genre and showcases Hardy’s talent as a leading man. As the film continues to stream on Netflix, audiences can expect a wild ride filled with explosive action and moral complexity.
For those who appreciate gritty action films, Havoc may just deliver the adrenaline rush they seek. However, viewers should brace themselves for the relentless violence and consider the deeper themes woven into the narrative.
