Directed by Ariel Vromen, Criminal is a high-stakes action thriller that blends elements of espionage with a touch of science fiction. Starring Kevin Costner as an unrepentant criminal who becomes an unlikely hero, the film explores themes of identity, memory, and redemption. When an experimental memory-transfer procedure is used to implant a dead CIA operative’s memories into the mind of a violent convict, the boundaries between duty, personality, and morality become dangerously blurred. Criminal delivers gripping action and suspenseful intrigue, with a strong cast and an unconventional narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

🧩 Plot Overview: A Criminal Transformed into an Unlikely Hero

CIA agent Bill Pope (Ryan Reynolds) is on the run from terrorists while carrying critical information on a top-secret hacker, “The Dutchman,” who holds the keys to the world’s nuclear codes. Tragically, Pope is killed before revealing his intel, leaving the agency with no leads. In a last-ditch effort, CIA chief Quaker Wells (Gary Oldman) authorizes an experimental procedure, implanting Pope’s memories into the brain of Jerico Stewart (Kevin Costner), a violent convict with a unique brain structure that allows him to retain Pope’s memories.

As Jerico struggles with unfamiliar memories, emotions, and instincts from Pope’s life, he finds himself torn between his own violent nature and Pope’s sense of duty. Pursued by terrorists and the CIA alike, Jerico races against time to protect Pope’s family and complete the mission, all while grappling with the clash between his own identity and the fragments of Pope’s consciousness.

🎬 Film Details:

• Title: Criminal
• Director: Ariel Vromen
• Release Date: April 15, 2016
• Cast: Kevin Costner (Jerico Stewart), Gary Oldman (Quaker Wells), Tommy Lee Jones (Dr. Franks), Ryan Reynolds (Bill Pope), Gal Gadot (Jill Pope)
• Genre: Action, Thriller, Sci-Fi
• Runtime: 1h 53m
• Box Office: $38.8 million (global)

🔥 Intense Action and Gritty Realism

Criminal is packed with intense action sequences and gritty confrontations, with Kevin Costner’s Jerico as an unpredictable, physically imposing protagonist. The film showcases high-speed chases, brutal close-quarters fights, and explosive gunfights, emphasizing the chaotic and violent nature of Jerico’s character. The action scenes are stylized but grounded, with Costner bringing a raw physicality to the role, making Jerico feel both intimidating and unpredictable.

The film’s setting across the rainy, industrial landscapes of London adds a moody, suspenseful atmosphere that complements the film’s themes of moral ambiguity and identity conflict.

💡 Themes of Identity, Redemption, and Memory

Criminal explores the concept of identity and how memory shapes who we are. Jerico’s journey from a remorseless criminal to someone who finds purpose and connection reflects a transformation rooted in the influence of Pope’s memories and values. As Jerico experiences fragments of Pope’s life, he begins to develop empathy and a sense of responsibility, leading to an internal conflict that questions the nature of free will versus memory and influence.

The film also touches on redemption, as Jerico’s exposure to Pope’s memories forces him to confront his own violent tendencies and choices. By navigating Pope’s world, Jerico finds a pathway to redemption, allowing himself to evolve beyond his past.

🎭 Impressive Cast and Gritty Performances

Kevin Costner delivers a powerful, unflinching performance as Jerico Stewart, portraying a character torn between aggression and newfound emotions with conviction and depth. Costner’s portrayal of Jerico’s transformation from a violent outcast to a reluctant hero is gritty and believable, adding weight to the film’s complex themes. Ryan Reynolds, though only present briefly, makes a memorable impact as Bill Pope, whose memories serve as Jerico’s moral compass.

Gary Oldman as Quaker Wells brings intensity to his role as the driven, relentless CIA chief, while Tommy Lee Jones as Dr. Franks provides a calmer counterbalance as the scientist responsible for the memory-transfer procedure. Gal Gadot as Jill Pope adds an emotional layer to the story, giving Jerico a personal connection that serves as a key motivation in his journey.

⭐ Final Verdict: A Dark, Thought-Provoking Thriller with Action and Heart

Criminal is a dark, fast-paced action thriller that pushes the boundaries of memory, identity, and redemption. Ariel Vromen’s direction, combined with a compelling performance from Kevin Costner, makes Criminal a gritty, engaging film that blends intense action with philosophical questions. While not a traditional sci-fi film, its focus on the implications of memory transfer adds a unique twist to the thriller genre, making it an interesting watch for fans of both action and psychological drama.

For those who enjoy complex protagonists and action with an edge, Criminal delivers a unique story about transformation, choice, and what it means to be human.