In a recent interview promoting her latest film, The Bluff, Priyanka Chopra Jonas reflected on her transition from Bollywood to Hollywood, citing a sense of feeling “limited” by the Indian film industry that first brought her fame. Over the past decade, Chopra Jonas has taken on several roles in American cinema, notably in the Bafta-nominated The White Tiger, but many of her projects have leaned towards conventional entertainment, such as the romantic comedy Love Again and the spy series Citadel, which, despite low critical reception, became Amazon Prime’s second most-watched show.
The Bluff marks a significant return to form for Chopra Jonas as she steps back into the action heroine role a decade after her breakout performance in the series Quantico. This time, she takes on the character of Ercell “Bloody Mary” Bodden, a 19th-century pirate who has retreated from her adventurous past to lead a serene life on Cayman Brac. However, her peaceful existence is shattered when her husband is kidnapped by Connor, portrayed by Karl Urban, a menacing figure from her past.
The film kicks off with home invasion scenes that showcase thrilling and brutal action sequences, where Ercell quickly reverts to her fierce pirate persona, engaging in intense and gritty fights. The film’s action stands out for its vivid choreography and a cathartic tone that lends itself well to fans of splatter films, promising an energetic viewing experience that would benefit from an immersive format like 4DX.
As the narrative unfolds, Ercell is forced into a perilous chase against Connor and his army, highlighting her fierce resolve as she navigates the dangers of both the land and sea. Director Frank E Flowers crafts a film rich with vibrant visuals, enhanced by the production prowess of the Russo brothers, making Cayman Brac a character in its own right.
While The Bluff may not prioritize dialogue, it does venture into pulp territory with its mix of humor and violence. However, the film’s portrayal of female characters can sometimes fall into clichéd tropes, and a deeper emotional or romantic connection between Ercell and Connor could have added another layer to the storyline. Chopra Jonas embraces the film’s wild spirit, excelling in its physical demands and delivering several entertaining one-liners throughout.
Ultimately, The Bluff arrives as an unexpected gem in the streaming space, offering thrilling action and an earnest portrayal of a pirate’s life. With moments that balance the macabre with the fantastical, the film showcases Chopra Jonas’s versatility as an actress and her capacity to tackle both the brutal and the heroic elements of her character.