Amazon Prime Video has recently released its latest action thriller, G20, showcasing Viola Davis in an electrifying role as President Danielle Sutton. The film centers around her preparations for the G20 summit, where she plans to unveil a new initiative aimed at addressing the economic challenges faced by lesser-developed nations. However, her efforts draw criticism from fellow leaders and provoke the wrath of a terrorist organization that disrupts the summit, unleashing chaos.
Although G20 has garnered unfavorable reviews on Rotten Tomatoes, it offers considerable entertainment value, largely due to Davis’s compelling performance as a strong, empathetic leader. The film melds established tropes of traditional action films with a plot that resonates with contemporary global issues, making it a thrilling watch. Enthusiastic audiences are undoubtedly eager for similar cinematic experiences, and thankfully, there are several notable films to watch after G20.
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White House Down (2013)
A Film with Parallels to G20
White House Down shares thematic and narrative similarities with G20, enhanced by its distinct circumstances. The story follows John Cale, played by Channing Tatum, whose day takes a sudden turn following a disappointing job interview for a Secret Service position. When terrorists seize the White House during a tour with his daughter, Cale must step up to safeguard both the President and the nation.
This film is packed with relentless action and boasts a lighter, more humorous tone compared to G20. Both films feature protagonists caught off-guard but ultimately striving to become heroes through their military backgrounds, leading to surprising confrontations with their adversaries.
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Under Siege (1992)
A Clash of Titans: Seagal vs. Jones
In this classic action thriller, Under Siege, Steven Seagal stars as Casey Ryback, a cook aboard the USS Missouri with a hidden past as a Navy SEAL. When a group of terrorists led by Tommy Lee Jones’s character, William Strannix, targets the battleship to steal missiles, Ryback must reveal his true capabilities to rescue his co-workers and neutralize the threat.
The film earned acclaim from critics, who noted its departure from Seagal’s lesser-rated works thanks to skillful direction and the film’s tense, claustrophobic atmosphere. Jones’s portrayal of Strannix, a disgruntled CIA operative, shines as a standout element, resonating well with fans of G20.
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Die Hard (1988)
The Iconic Action Film: A Benchmark for Thrillers
As the archetype for modern action films, Die Hard leaves an indelible mark on the genre that is evident in G20. The narrative follows NYPD officer John McClane, who finds himself battling terrorists during his wife’s office Christmas party. Despite the absence of a presidential focus, McClane’s resourcefulness and bravery parallel nicely with Davis’s character in G20.
The film features legendary performances, notably from Bruce Willis and Alan Rickman, coupled with a tightly woven plot that has earned Die Hard its rightful place in action film history.
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Olympus Has Fallen (2013)
Similarity to G20: Protecting the President
The Olympus Has Fallen series, featuring Gerard Butler, has often been compared to G20 for good reason. The film follows Mike Banning, a former Secret Service agent determined to thwart a terrorist plot against President Benjamin Asher, portrayed by Aaron Eckhart. Banning’s relentless pursuit to save the President and the nation showcases his grit and heroism in a fashion akin to President Sutton’s narrative in G20.
While the film received mixed reviews upon its release, its box office success led to two sequels, solidifying its standing in the action genre.
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Air Force One (1997)
A President’s Fight for Survival
In a departure from the typical formula of action films featuring protective agents, Air Force One showcases President James Marshall, played by Harrison Ford, taking control during a hijacking incident. As the aircraft is commandeered by terrorists who oppose his foreign policy, Marshall—an astute veteran—steps up to ensure his safety and that of his family.
While Air Force One adheres to conventional action tropes similar to those found in G20, Ford’s charismatic portrayal and Gary Oldman’s intense villain create a compelling dynamic that resonates with audiences. Just as Marshall embraces his role as a strong leader, Davis embodies the same spirit of resilience in her role as President Sutton.