‘Friendly Fire’ Netflix Movie Review - One-Time Watch

Movies on Esports are always fun to watch. This is why E-sports takes center stage once again in Friendly Fire, a gripping film by Mikhail Red that brings the competitive world of gaming to life with energy and heart. Set against the backdrop of the highly anticipated Grand Prix of Project Xandata in Hong Kong, the film explores themes of redemption, teamwork, and self-discovery through the journey of an unlikely underdog.

The story kicks off with the Philippines’ top team, Team Isla, facing a setback after losing their star player Adrian Go, also known as "Reaper" (Jan Silverio). Desperate to rebuild, team manager Sonya Wilson (Coleen Garcia-Crawford) stumbles upon Hazel Sales, aka "Kaya" (Loisa Andalio), a skilled yet rough-around-the-edges player working at an internet café. Hazel’s raw talent catches Sonya's eye during an intense match where she lands a stunning one-shot, double-kill against Team Isla. With bold recruitment, Hazel joins the team but struggles to find her footing with teammates Von (Yves Flores) and Ryan (Harvey Bautista).

Hazel’s backstory adds depth to her character and fuels the film’s emotional core. Raised by a troubled mother (Liza Dino) who squanders money on alcohol, Hazel shoulders financial responsibilities while honing her skills at Clicktopia, the café where her passion for gaming began. Her elder brother Aero (Jon Lucas), who first introduced her to Project Xandata, serves as an emotional anchor, even from prison. These relationships add layers to Hazel’s journey, making her rise in the e-sports world all the more compelling.

Mikhail Red masterfully captures the thrill of competitive gaming with vibrant editing, dynamic camera work, and a pulsating soundtrack. The intense gameplay sequences, paired with the high-energy commentary of in-game announcers, create a sense of urgency and excitement, drawing viewers into the action despite the seemingly sedentary nature of e-sports. The film captures the camaraderie, tension, and adrenaline that define this world, making it accessible even to audiences unfamiliar with the gaming scene.

Loisa Andalio shines in her portrayal of Hazel, balancing sass and vulnerability in a performance that feels authentic and heartfelt. Her chemistry with Coleen Garcia-Crawford’s Sonya adds depth to the mentor-mentee dynamic, while her gradual bonding with teammates Von and Ryan feels earned and satisfying. Supporting performances by Yves Flores and Harvey Bautista provide levity and warmth, rounding out the team dynamic. Overall the acting is pretty good throughout the movie.

While the film bears some similarities to GG (Good Game), another e-sports-themed movie released earlier this year, Friendly Fire stands out with its focus on an underdog story and its exploration of the personal struggles behind the screen.

Though the plot may be predictable—you can guess the outcome of the climactic Grand Prix—it’s the journey that makes Friendly Fire worth watching. The film champions resilience, teamwork, and the courage to defy the odds, making it a must-watch for fans of e-sports and inspiring stories alike.

Final Score- [6/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times