The Shadow Strays (2024): "A Blood Bath Action Entertainer"

Director: Timo Tjahjanto
Starring: Aurora Ribero, Hana Prinantina, Taskya Namya, Andri Mashasdi
Producers: XYZ Films
Production House: Screenplay Films
Music Director: Fajar Yuskemal
Cinematography: Ical Tanjung
Editor: Arifin Cu'unk
Language: Indonesian
Genre: Action, Thriller
Runtime: 2 hours
OTT: Netflix

Plot

The Shadow Strays (2024) follows a 17-year-old assassin named Codename 13, who is manipulated by a corrupt government for clandestine operations. Tasked with assassinating specific targets, she uncovers deeper conspiracies that challenge her loyalty and drive her to fight back against the organization controlling her. The action-packed film focuses on her struggle between survival and rebellion, set against a backdrop of brutal combat and intense personal stakes.

Performances

Aurora Ribero – Aurora delivered a powerful performance as the leader, Shadow. Her portrayal of both rage and vulnerability brought depth to the role, particularly in the emotionally-charged action scenes. She flawlessly balances cold precision with emotional outbursts in her fight sequences, making her a standout.

Hana Prinantina – Playing the role of the cold and calculated instructor, Hana's commanding presence and powerful delivery gave weight to her performance. Her action scenes were intense, and she excelled in portraying a character that masks emotion behind a facade of discipline.

Taskya Namya – Taskya’s portrayal of a wild and unpredictable member of the team brought energy and vibrancy to the film. She embodied her character’s quirky yet lethal personality, making her role memorable.

Andri Mashasdi – As the villain hiding in the shadows, Andri was menacing yet layered. His character, driven by revenge and desperation, was portrayed with a perfect balance of understated menace and outbursts of rage.

Technical Aspects

Direction – Timo Tjahjanto is known for his exceptional skill in choreographing action sequences, and The Shadow Strays is no exception. His direction keeps the focus on brutal, high-paced action, but the story sometimes takes a backseat to the relentless fighting.

Cinematography – Ical Tanjung’s cinematography captures the grim, dystopian atmosphere with moody lighting and dynamic angles. The action sequences are stunningly shot, highlighting the precision of the choreography while immersing the audience in the chaos.

Editing – Arifin Cu'unk’s editing is sharp and precise, effectively balancing the intensity of action scenes with moments of stillness. However, some slower scenes tend to drag, causing occasional pacing issues.

Music – Fajar Yuskemal's score adds an extra layer of intensity, particularly during the film's more violent sequences. The music elevates the tension and heightens the emotional stakes, especially in the climactic moments.

Strengths

• Action Sequences
• Direction
• Music
• Cinematography

Weaknesses

• Pacing issues in certain scenes
• Lack of emotional depth
• Limited drama

My Personal Take On Cinema

The Shadow Strays is an intense, action-packed film that delivers on its promise of high-octane combat and thrilling sequences. Timo Tjahjanto once again proves his mastery of action direction, with the film’s brutal and blood-soaked fight scenes being the main highlight. Aurora Ribero and Hana Prinantina give standout performances, bringing their characters to life amidst the chaos. However, the film’s thin plot and emotional disconnect might leave some viewers wanting more depth. The pacing drags in certain sections, but the relentless action pulls the film back on track. With a cliffhanger ending hinting at a sequel, The Shadow Strays will surely satisfy action fans who enjoy pure, adrenaline-fueled entertainment.

Overall: 2.75/5