The passing of the torch in film has been a tried-and-true narrative, one that showcases the clash between old and new, tradition and innovation. “Old Guy,” directed by Simon West, brings this familiar concept into the world of contract killing, where an aging hitman trains his young replacement—only for betrayal and revenge to follow.
The film introduces Danny Dolinski, played by the incomparable Christoph Waltz, an aging hitman grappling with the limitations of his once-deadly shooting hand. Dolinski may be past his prime, but his carefree attitude towards life, full of partying and rockstar-esque bravado, keeps him afloat in a world that’s quickly passing him by. Enter Wilhborg (Cooper Hoffman), the highly-skilled and no-nonsense young assassin, whose cold professionalism contrasts sharply with Dolinski’s irreverence. Forced together by their employers, the duo navigates their differences until a botched hit turns them into targets themselves, sending them on a mission to seek revenge against those who betrayed them.
At the heart of Old Guy is the dynamic between Waltz’s Dolinski and Hoffman’s Wilhborg, which is undeniably compelling. Dolinski is both a likable rogue and a deeply flawed individual, clinging to outdated ideals while struggling to accept that his time has passed. Waltz plays this role with his signature charm, making the character’s delusions and arrogance strangely endearing. On the other hand, Hoffman’s portrayal of Wilhborg is nuanced, blending overconfidence with insecurity, creating a character who feels both fresh and relatable. While Hoffman’s performance is strong, his character lacks a bit of depth, leaving some room for further exploration.
One of the more disappointing aspects of the film, however, is the underutilization of Lucy Liu. While her chemistry with Waltz is palpable, her character’s arc is underdeveloped, and she’s largely absent for much of the film, rendering her role more of a token plot point rather than an integral part of the story. Likewise, many supporting characters feel expendable, with little attention given to their development.
The action in Old Guy is straightforward, with standard shootouts and car chases that lack the flair to make them stand out in the genre. While the action sequences are competent, none of them leave a lasting impression. The film’s simple approach to action can be refreshing, but it also highlights the lack of memorable moments. The opening title sequence, with its nod to films like Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, offers a brief burst of creativity, but the subsequent scenes fail to build on this energy. Notably, the fire effects towards the end of the film are notably underwhelming, detracting from the otherwise solid production.
Despite its flaws, Old Guy is an enjoyable film that doesn’t aim to reinvent the action genre but rather delivers a solid, if unremarkable, experience. The pairing of Waltz and Hoffman offers the film its strongest asset, with their chemistry carrying the film through its more formulaic moments. While Old Guy may not make waves in the action movie landscape, it’s a fun throwback that satisfies without overstepping its bounds.
Old Guy is now playing in theaters, having premiered on February 21, 2025.
Related topic:
“The Plastic Men”: A Haunting Exploration of PTSD in Vietnam Veterans
Tom Cruise’s Final ‘Mission: Impossible’ Film Weighs Cannes Premiere
First Look at ’13 Days, 13 Nights’ Trailer and Poster