In a bold cinematic move, EGOT winner Viola Davis takes on the role of U.S. President Danielle Sutton in the new action-thriller film "G20." Released on April 10, 2025, and streaming exclusively on Prime Video, the film positions Davis as a formidable leader who must navigate a high-stakes hostage situation during an international summit in South Africa.
Directed by Patricia Riggen, "G20" showcases a gripping narrative where President Sutton, a former army veteran, finds herself and her family taken hostage by terrorists at the G20 summit in Cape Town. The film not only highlights her combat experience but also her determination to protect her loved ones and fellow world leaders from a dire threat.
As the action unfolds, viewers witness Sutton’s transition from a politician focused on ending world hunger to a fierce protector. The film cleverly intertwines contemporary themes like cryptocurrency and deepfake technology with classic action movie tropes reminiscent of the 1990s blockbusters.
"G20" introduces a cast of notable actors alongside Davis, including Anthony Anderson as her husband, Derek Sutton, and Marsai Martin as their tech-savvy daughter, Serena. The film’s antagonist, Rutledge, played by Antony Starr, employs a devious plan to undermine the summit using advanced technology to create chaos and panic.
The film opens with a prologue set in Budapest, where Rutledge is introduced as a mercenary with a complicated scheme to hijack the summit. The narrative swiftly shifts to President Sutton and her family as they arrive in South Africa, ready to promote her agenda of digital banking for impoverished farmers. However, their plans are thwarted when Rutledge and his team execute a violent takeover of the summit, holding world leaders hostage.
In a recent interview, Davis expressed her excitement about the physical challenges of the role, stating that the intense stunt training she undertook for three months would have thrilled her younger self. "We choreographed a lot of these fight scenes on the set; you had to use your imagination with found objects, with what’s in the kitchen that you can fight with to take someone down. That was a different sort of fun," she shared with The Hollywood Reporter.
The film spends a significant portion building up to the attack, with almost forty minutes dedicated to character development and plot setup. However, once the action begins, it doesn't hold back. Sutton, alongside her Secret Service agent Manny Ruiz, portrayed by Ramón Rodríguez, must navigate the chaos and devise a plan to rescue her family and fellow leaders.
Critics have noted that while the film embraces many modern themes, it often feels like a familiar retread of action formulas. Some reviews describe it as an underwhelming experience that fails to fully utilize its star power. Despite this, Davis's performance has been praised for its commanding presence, showcasing her physicality and resilience.
The film's dialogue, however, has drawn mixed reactions. While it attempts to tackle serious issues such as misogyny and leadership challenges, some critics argue that the script lacks the sharpness needed to elevate the material. The portrayal of Sutton as a strong female leader is commendable, but the film's execution sometimes falls flat, leading to moments that feel more like preachy commentary than engaging storytelling.
In the context of today’s political climate, "G20" resonates with viewers, particularly as it features a Black female president facing off against a villain whose motives echo real-world fears about economic instability and technological manipulation. The film’s antagonist aims to collapse global currencies by exploiting public trust, a theme that resonates in the current landscape of economic uncertainty.
As the film progresses, Sutton’s relationship with her daughter Serena becomes a focal point, showcasing their evolving dynamic as they confront the challenges posed by Rutledge. Critics have noted that while the film is action-packed, it also attempts to weave in emotional depth, particularly through the familial bonds amidst chaos.
Despite its flaws, "G20" provides a thrilling escape, offering viewers a chance to witness a strong female lead in a genre that has historically sidelined women in action roles. Davis's portrayal of President Sutton is both empowering and entertaining, as she navigates the chaos with grit and determination.
In conclusion, "G20" is a film that, while not without its shortcomings, showcases the potential for action cinema to explore contemporary issues through a compelling narrative. As it streams on Prime Video, audiences can witness a blend of action, drama, and political commentary, all anchored by Viola Davis's powerful performance. Whether you're looking for a thrilling ride or a thoughtful exploration of leadership, "G20" offers something for everyone.
