Back in Action is rated PG-13 by the Motion Picture Rating (MPA) for sequences of violence and action, some suggestive references and strong language, and brief teen partying.
Violence & Action: There are many intense scenes in the movie, which are action scenes such as fight scenes, shooting scenes, and chase scenes. Despite the fact that the movie does not depict scenes of graphic cruelty and the violence is somewhat theatrical, children may still find it very dramatic.
There are several violent sequences where characters attack each other using their fists and legs with occasional use of objects found in the environment. These scenes are aimed to be as lively as possible and more cinematic in tone but they are not highly violent or over the top in terms of bloodshed.
Several scenes contain explosions or massive destruction: a desperate scene and an implied terrorist attack. While it is not very violent, the scenes might cause discomfort to people with weaker stomachs.
Some of the characters get temporarily defeated during the fights, and they might be bleeding or unconscious but this aspect is not really portrayed.
The fight scene where Emily and Matt have to defend themselves from aggressive people happens in a nightclub and feels a tad more realistic and violent because of it.
Language: The movie has a few instances of strong language, with four instances of the word ‘damn’ and two instances of ‘hell.’ There are also instances of mild profanities such as ‘crap.’ There might also be instances where ‘s–t’ is used but these occurrences are not overly often.
It is also possible to come across such comments and callouts as the case of a young girl who considers using ‘momsux’ as her password. Although it is used for comedy, it may evoke reflections concerning respect within families.
Sexual Content: There are lighthearted conversations between the protagonists, Emily andMatt, implying that they are married, and remarks about their marriage. The cardinality of some of their private scenes suggests opportunity for sex, but sex per se is not depicted.
There is a scene that hints at sexual attraction through mock fighting and touching but does not go beyond the playful level and is rather short.
Emily’s mother, Ginny, introduces her much younger boyfriend, Nigel, whose awkward attempts to bond with the family include some hilarious yet leasing moments, for instance, when he boasts of being a stud.
Some viewers may have issues at the possibility of Emily’s teenage daughter Alice has a boyfriend who is old enough to be her father.
Substance Use: One scene is the scene of a nightclub where people are depicted as taking alcohol and exhibiting behavior that is deemed appropriate for adults only. As this is depicted to be in the backdrop of the context, it does not glorify alcoholism in any manner.
There is no incidence of the use of drugs or smoking within the movie.
Back in Action Ending Explained
Spoiler Alert!: The following content contains detailed plot points and key events from Back in Action. If you haven’t seen the movie yet and want to experience the surprises firsthand, we recommend watching it before reading further. Proceed at your own discretion!
Ever wished for an action-packed celluloid wherein spies, gadgets and stakes exist juxtaposed with pesky squealing children? That is exactly what ‘Back in Action’ seeks to offer, with Cameron Diaz making a long-awaited comeback on the big screen alongside Jamie Foxx. All in all, do these aspects of the movie merge cohesively or chaotically when watching the funny, action-filled, and heartfelt flick?
Back in Action narrates the story of Emily (Diaz) and Matt (Foxx) who are former CIA agents now leading an ordinary life as parents to their daughter in a suburban neighborhood. The stakes? A modern key from the world of high technologies, which every person desires to possess. between covert operations and teenage hi-jinx with their children Alice and Leo, Emily and Matt must navigate marital strife and save the world again. And it is a wonderful blend of espionage action, comedy and parenthood in an adventure that mirrors their crazy life.
It gives more of an old school feel compared to other modern action-comedies with nice fight choreography, cool one-liners, and emotion-filled sequences. It’s like True Lies with a hint of Spy Kids that targets the parents who are probably fantasizing about a little adventure in their monotonous lives.
Recommended:Presence Parents Guide
Unfortunately, despite the undeniable charm that Diaz and Foxx convey on screen, much of the film feels stale. The fight scenes and the scenes with fire are filled with action, while the movement has been rather stereotyped and the jokes are based on the stereotype of the relationship between the generations of parents and their children. Seeing chemistry between Emily and Matt during missions is entertaining, but the actual dialogues do not exaggerate it and are witty at most.
There are some bright spots: Jamie Demetriou’s portrayal of Nigel, Emily’s mom’s quirky boyfriend, was one of the fewcomic contributions to an otherwise tired sitcom. Although there seem to be numerous stories focused on Emily’s life, Glenn Close playing the role of Emily’s spy mom who travels around the world is rather exciting, though it seems her character is not fully developed.
Back in Action can be watched as a casual movie if one loves watching action comedies and enjoys a blend of espionage and family issues. However, do not set your expectations high in terms of originality of plot twists or new approaches. It is a conservative family blockbusters-type movie to help parents forget about something, and even though the comeback of Diaz is an excellent addition, it feels insufficient for turning this Netflix production into something remarkable.
Another prominent theme is the family one, and more specifically, Emily’s conflict and rivalry with her teenage daughter Alice. Although this plot seems to attempt to bring in an emotional layer, it falls flat in this aspect as well. The conflict seems clichéd as it employs mainstream notions such as a rebellious teenager who is ungrateful to her parent and a parent who fails to relate with modern youthful individuals. Despite occasional passion, the film falls short in its inability to refine and focus on one idea, instead of trying to include so many aspects.
On the aesthetic side, Back in Action has its share of well-framed scenes, with polished locations like the Tate Modern giving the film a classy veneer over otherwise unremarkable locales. However, the cinematography and effects do not enhance the motion picture and make it distinct from the run-of-the-mill movie. Stylized action scenes are fast and filled with some rather impressive stunts but they are not as inventive or complex as the audience would expect in the current day and age set by John Wick.
The music score is also important and draws heavily from many popular songs such as the soft jazz of Nat King Cole’s “L-O-V-E” and Salt-N-Pepa’s “Push It.” While these selections are obviously intended to provide levity and convey an air of hipness, they again come off as awkward, as though the film is struggling to constantly remind the audience of the stars’ badassery. More often than not, the music becomes merely a distraction and does not add to the action or the humor of the scene.
In conclusion, Back in Action does not offer anything more than a reversed mold of other action-comedy movies infused with family drama and seventies nostalgia. Cameron Diaz and Jamie Foxx do relatively well at playing off each other but are hindered by the mediocre script. Another annoying aspect is that the film tries to depict its leading characters as ‘cool’ as ever, and such an attitude undermines a potentially compelling and believable plot.
For those who are fans of Cameron Diaz, this film might just appeal to them as an opportunity to watch her in the action (stealing) genre again. However, to anyone who does not personally know either of these individuals, this Netflix movie is unlikely to have a lasting impact. It is the type of movie that one can find while browsing their streaming service and end up watching simply because they were bored.
Final Thought: While Back in Action tries to blend family comedy with spy action, it just barely misses the mark. It is good to see the comeback of Diaz but the film does not provide her with the material she needs, also relying on clichés and a predictable plot. If you fancy a light read, you should bookmark this one for a relaxing Sunday read; however, this read will not leave you speechless.
Director: Seth Gordon
Writer: Seth Gordon , Brendan O’Brien
Starring: Cameron Diaz , Jamie Foxx , McKenna Roberts , Glenn Close , and Kyle Chandler
Release Date: January 17, 2025