‘Non Negotiable’ (2024) Netflix Movie Review - Action and Comedy and Thrills

"Non-Negotiable" is a delightful mix of action, comedy, and thriller that hits all the right notes for a fun movie night. Directed by Juan Taratuto, this Mexican film stars Mauricio Ochmann as Alan Bender, Mexico’s top hostage negotiator. The plot kicks off with a high-stakes scenario where the President and his lover are kidnapped, and the kidnapper will only negotiate with Bender.

Ochmann brings a charming blend of seriousness and humor to his role, balancing the tension of the hostage situation with lighter moments that keep the film from getting too heavy. His chemistry with Leonardo Ortizgris and Tato Alexander adds a great dynamic to the movie, making their interactions some of the most entertaining parts.

The film's strength lies in its ability to mix genres seamlessly. It's packed with suspenseful negotiation scenes, peppered with witty dialogues, and topped with action sequences that keep you on the edge of your seat. The storyline doesn’t just focus on the political thriller aspect but delves into Bender’s personal life, adding depth to his character. His struggle to balance the intense demands of his job with his crumbling marriage adds a relatable layer to his character.

The humor in "Non-Negotiable" is sharp and well-timed, never feeling out of place even in the midst of tense situations. The scriptwriters deserve kudos for their ability to weave humor into a thriller without making it feel forced. There are plenty of laugh-out-loud moments that come from the quirky, well-developed characters and their interactions.

On the downside, the film does fall into some predictable tropes. The villain’s motives and the final showdown are somewhat clichéd, and if you’re a seasoned thriller viewer, you might see some twists coming from a mile away. Additionally, while the film's pace is generally brisk, there are moments where it lags, particularly in the middle when the focus shifts more heavily to Bender’s personal drama.

Visually, "Non-Negotiable" is well-crafted, with crisp cinematography that captures the bustling streets of Mexico City and the claustrophobic tension of the hostage situation. The music by Pablo Borghi complements the film well, heightening the suspense and adding to the emotional beats.

In summary, "Non-Negotiable" is a thoroughly entertaining film that offers a bit of everything: suspense, humor, and action. It’s the kind of movie that’s perfect for a Friday night when you want something engaging but not too heavy. While it may not reinvent the genre, it’s a solid entry with memorable performances and a script that knows how to balance its various elements effectively. Will you watch it again? Maybe not immediately. But for a one-time viewing, it’s definitely worth your time.

For a good mix of thrills and laughs, "Non-Negotiable" is a non-negotiable choice.

Final Score- [8/10]
Reviewed by - Anjali Sharma
Follow @AnjaliS54769166 on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times