In a groundbreaking new action film, Amazon Prime Video has released 'G20', which has quickly climbed to the number one spot in Spain. Starring the acclaimed actress Viola Davis as President Danielle Sutton, the film presents a fresh take on the action genre, featuring a strong female lead in a high-stakes political thriller.
'G20' follows President Sutton as she faces a dire situation during a G20 summit in South Africa, where terrorists led by Rutledge, played by Antony Starr, take the world leaders hostage. Their sinister plan involves coercing these leaders to read a pangram, a sentence that contains every letter of the alphabet, to create deepfakes that could potentially destabilize global markets. This clever yet dangerous scheme aims to inflate the value of Bitcoin, making Rutledge and his associates wealthy at the expense of the world economy.
The film was released on April 10, 2025, and has resonated with audiences, achieving a 63% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, although critics have been less favorable, giving it a 52% rating. On IMDb, it holds a score of 5/10, while FilmAffinity rates it at 4.2/10. Despite mixed reviews, 'G20' offers a mix of action and political commentary, making it a noteworthy addition to the genre.
Viola Davis's portrayal of President Sutton is particularly significant as it marks a departure from traditional depictions of female characters in action films. Davis, a seasoned actress known for her powerful performances, brings depth to her role, emphasizing that Sutton is not just a politician but a war hero with military experience. This character depth is crucial, as she navigates the complexities of leadership under pressure.
In an interview, Davis expressed her excitement about taking on this role, stating, "I’m not just playing the President of the United States; I’m portraying Danielle Sutton, who was elected to lead. She lives by her worth." This sentiment reflects the film's focus on female empowerment and leadership in times of crisis.
Directed by Patricia Riggen, known for her work on films like 'The 33', 'G20' combines thrilling action sequences with a critique of global political dynamics. Riggen aimed to present a narrative that goes beyond the typical American hero, incorporating international perspectives into the story. In her words, "It was important that in this film, not only Americans were the heroes, but also characters from different nationalities." This approach adds a layer of complexity to the film, showcasing diverse voices and perspectives.
The film's screenplay, written by Noah and Logan Miller, blends fast-paced action with relevant commentary on female leadership and the responsibilities of nations. As the plot unfolds, Sutton must lead a rescue operation from within the summit while intelligence agencies work from the outside, creating a tense atmosphere that keeps viewers on edge.
Despite its action-packed premise, 'G20' also touches on personal themes, such as Sutton's struggle to balance her duties as a leader with her responsibilities as a mother. The film explores her relationship with her teenage daughter, adding emotional depth to the narrative. This nuanced portrayal of a female leader resonates with audiences, particularly in an era where representation in film is increasingly important.
Critics have noted that while the film may not revolutionize the action genre, it successfully engages viewers with its mix of suspense, action, and social commentary. The action sequences are well-executed, featuring intense shootouts and combat choreography that, while not overly grandiose, effectively serve the story. The violence aligns with audience expectations for the genre, providing a satisfying experience for fans of action films.
As a testament to her dedication, Davis trained rigorously for the role, performing most of her own stunts. She worked with trainer Gabriela Mclain, who encouraged her to push her physical limits. Reflecting on her training, Davis humorously referred to it as "the Lord Voldemort of training" while emphasizing the importance of approaching her character as a relatable human being rather than a typical superhero. "If I had opted to play a superhero with a cape, there would have been countless moments in the film that wouldn’t have been captured," she explained.
'G20' is not just another action film; it is a statement about the changing landscape of Hollywood, where diverse stories and characters are becoming more prominent. Davis's role as a strong, capable female president challenges stereotypes and offers a fresh perspective in a genre often dominated by male leads.
In conclusion, 'G20' stands out not only for its thrilling plot but also for its commitment to showcasing a multifaceted female lead. As audiences flock to Prime Video to catch this unique film, it is clear that Viola Davis's portrayal of President Danielle Sutton is a powerful addition to the action genre, paving the way for more diverse representations in cinema.
