“Silent Night” Review: Joel Kinnaman Stars in John Woo’s Riveting Return to Hollywood

In the action-packed film “Silent Night,” dialogue takes a backseat to intense visual storytelling. Directed by John Woo, the movie marks his impressive return to Hollywood after a two-decade hiatus since his 2003 film “Paycheck.” The plot revolves around a father, Brian (played by Joel Kinnaman), who embarks on a vigilante mission to avenge his young son’s death caused by gang violence.

Set initially on Christmas Eve, “Silent Night” cleverly uses its title to hint at the absence of dialogue throughout the film. We meet Brian in a frantic chase, sporting a festive sweater, as he pursues a gang responsible for his son’s accidental death during a shootout. Brian’s pursuit ends with him being shot, leading to his loss of speech.

The film follows Brian’s transformation from a devoted family man to a revenge-driven individual, reminiscent of Travis Bickle. He rigorously trains in physical combat, knife skills, and firearms, preparing to confront the gang and their leader, Playa (Harold Torres), who finds Brian’s actions personal.

John Woo’s direction shines in the film’s action sequences, including car chases and gun battles, all crafted with his signature kinetic style and slow-motion effects. The standout scene is a brutal, extended hand-to-hand fight that elevates the movie’s intensity.

“Silent Night” also showcases beautiful visual transitions between Brian’s past happy life and his current grief-stricken existence, emphasizing the stark contrast between the two. The film’s minimal dialogue, rather than being a limitation, adds to its impact, supported by Kinnaman’s powerful performance. This approach proves to be a significant strength of the film, offering a unique and compelling action movie experience.

Full credits

Production: Thunder Road Films, Capstone Studios, Better Tomorrow Films
Distributor: Lionsgate
Cast: Joel Kinnaman, Scott Mescudi, Harold Torres, Catalina Sandino Moreno
Director: John Woo
Screenwriter: Robert Archer Lynn
Producers: Basil Iwanyk, Erica Lee, John Woo, Christian Mercuri, Lor Tilkin DeFelice
Executive producers: Roman Viaris, Joe Gatta, David Haring, Ruzanna Kegeyan, Tony Mark, Joel Kinnaman, Mike Gabrawy, Will Flynn
Director of photography: Sharone Meir
Production designer: Grant Armstrong
Editor: Zach Staenberg
Costume designer: Mariestela Fernandez
Composer: Marco Beltrami
Casting: Mariscol Roncali, Chelsea Ellis Bloch
1 hour 44 minutes