New Movies: Dirty Angels (2024) by Martin Campbell: An All-Female Commando Unit's Perilous Hostage Rescue Mission

Core Summary

Dirty Angels (2024) is an action-thriller film directed by Martin Campbell, renowned for his work on James Bond films (GoldenEye, Casino Royale) and other action blockbusters. Co-written by Campbell and Jonas McCord, the film is set against the backdrop of the US withdrawal from Afghanistan. It centers on an elite, all-female commando unit led by American soldier Jake (Eva Green). Their high-stakes mission: to infiltrate a terrorist group in Afghanistan, posing as members of a relief organization, to rescue a group of schoolgirls taken hostage, including the daughter of Afghanistan's Minister of Education and the US Ambassador's daughter. The mission is complicated by double-crosses, unforeseen tragedies, and the lingering "ghosts of Jake's past," making it a desperate, do-or-die operation. The film is characterized by its R-rated, graphic violence and Campbell's intent to portray the action with a high degree of realism for the female operatives.

Short Summary

Martin Campbell's Dirty Angels (2024) is an action-thriller following an all-female commando unit led by American soldier Jake (Eva Green). Posing as a relief organization, they embark on a dangerous mission in Afghanistan to rescue schoolgirls held hostage by terrorists, facing double-crosses and personal demons.

Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt23872640/

Link Review: https://collider.com/dirty-angels-review/

About movie: https://www.lionsgate.com/movies/dirty-angels

Link to watch: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/dirty-angels-2024 (US), https://www.justwatch.com/au/movie/dirty-angels-2024 (Australia), https://www.justwatch.com/ca/movie/dirty-angels-2024 (Canada), https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/dirty-angels-2024 (UK), https://www.justwatch.com/de/Film/dirty-angels-2024 (Germany)

Detailed Summary

Dirty Angels (2024) is an action-thriller directed by Martin Campbell, a filmmaker celebrated for his expertise in the action genre, particularly his revitalization of the James Bond franchise with GoldenEye and Casino Royale. Campbell also shares a story credit for the film with Jonas McCord.

• Release Information: The film had a limited theatrical release in the USA on December 13, 2024, distributed by Lionsgate Films. It also saw international limited releases in territories like Russia/CIS (December 12, 2024), Croatia (January 3, 2025), and Spain (January 24, 2025). The film became available for digital and VOD streaming around December 13, 2024, and specifically on Lionsgate Play from March 14, 2025. It has a runtime of 1 hour and 52 minutes (or 1 hour and 44 minutes in some listings) and an R rating for "strong/bloody violence and language." The film was produced on a budget of €35 million.

• Plot: The narrative is set during the tumultuous period of the US military withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021. A group of schoolgirls, including the daughter of Afghanistan's Minister of Education and the US Ambassador's daughter, are taken hostage by terrorists. After a failed rescue attempt by Delta Force, the US military recruits Jake (Eva Green), a former American soldier, to lead a new, highly dangerous mission.

  • Jake assembles an all-female commando unit, comprised of skilled operatives: Rocky (a mechanic), Geek (a technician, played by Jojo T. Gibbs), Shooter (a weapon specialist, played by Emily Bruni), The Bomb (an explosives expert, played by Maria Bakalova), and Medic (played by Ruby Rose).

  • Their audacious plan involves posing as members of a relief organization to gain the trust of the terrorists and infiltrate their lair.

  • However, the mission is fraught with peril due to double-crosses, unexpected tragedies, and the resurfacing "ghosts of Jake's past," which are explicitly linked to the terrorist leader Amir (George Iskandar). These complications elevate the stakes, turning it into a desperate "do-or-die mission" to liberate the hostages.

• Themes: The film explores themes prevalent in military action thrillers, with a particular focus on:

  • Heroism and Sacrifice: The extreme lengths individuals go to rescue the innocent in a war-torn region.

  • Undercover Operations and Deception: The high-risk strategy of posing as aid workers to infiltrate enemy lines.

  • War and Its Aftermath: Set against the backdrop of a military withdrawal, it touches on the enduring conflict and its human cost.

  • Female Empowerment in Action: Featuring an all-female commando unit, Campbell aimed for a realistic portrayal of their combat capabilities, a "legitimate plot point" rather than mere tokenism.

  • Personal Demons and Redemption: Jake's past connection to the conflict adds a layer of personal stakes and internal struggle to the mission.

• Cast: The film boasts an international cast led by Eva Green (Jake), known for her powerful roles in films like Casino Royale and 300: Rise of an Empire. She is supported by Maria Bakalova (The Bomb), Ruby Rose (Medic), Jojo T. Gibbs (Geek), Rona-Lee Shimon (Rocky/Mechanic), Emily Bruni (Shooter), George Iskandar (Amir), Christopher Backus (CIA agent Travis), and Laëtitia Eïdo.

• Filmmaking Style: Campbell's direction is characterized by tense action sequences and graphic, realistic violence, which he explicitly defended as crucial to making the female unit's actions credible. The film blends "thriller" elements (build-up and tension) in its first half with more "action-heavy" sequences in the second. Some critics noted instances of "shoddy CGI" typical of Millennium productions.

Plot Summary

• Hostage Crisis: Schoolgirls, including high-profile targets, are taken hostage by terrorists in Afghanistan amidst the US military withdrawal.

• Elite Female Unit: American soldier Jake leads an all-female commando unit tasked with their rescue after a previous attempt fails.

• Undercover Infiltration: The team poses as a relief organization to gain access to the terrorist stronghold.

• Complications and Personal Stakes: Double-crosses, unexpected tragedies, and Jake's personal history with the terrorist leader threaten the mission.

• Do-or-Die Rescue: The unit battles intense odds in a high-stakes, violent operation to liberate the girls.

Director's Vision

Martin Campbell's vision for Dirty Angels (2024) is to deliver a gritty, realistic, and intense action-thriller that showcases the formidable capabilities of an all-female commando unit. Known for his ability to craft impactful action sequences and elevate genre films, Campbell aimed to infuse this mission-based narrative with credibility and high stakes. His vision emphasizes:

• Realistic Action: Campbell explicitly stated his desire for the action and violence to be "realistic" and "credible" for a team of trained women, moving away from "heightened violence" often seen in female-led action films. He wanted to show what "these girls could actually do."

• Female Agency and Competence: The choice of an all-female unit is presented as a "legitimate plot point" and "integral to the story," highlighting their necessity, capability, and rough-and-tumble nature in a high-risk environment.

• Tension and Build-Up: The film prioritizes building suspense and tension in its first half before escalating into more action-heavy set pieces in the latter half, a characteristic of his thriller approach.

• High-Stakes Narrative: The rescue of schoolgirls in a war-torn region, combined with personal demons and double-crosses, ensures a constant sense of urgency and danger.

• Gritty Atmosphere: Campbell aimed for a "very gritty mission-style scenario," embracing the R-rating to depict violence unflinchingly.

• Personal Stakes: By linking the protagonist's past to the mission, Campbell adds a layer of emotional depth and personal drive to the action.

Key Themes

• Heroism and Sacrifice: The courage and selflessness of soldiers undertaking a perilous rescue mission.

• War and Conflict: The harsh realities of the US withdrawal from Afghanistan and the enduring impact of terrorism.

• Undercover Operations and Deception: The moral and practical challenges of infiltrating enemy lines under false pretenses.

• Female Strength and Capability: Showcasing an elite, all-female military unit as competent and formidable.

• Personal Demons and Redemption: The protagonist's struggle with past traumas and seeking resolution through the mission.

• Justice and Liberation: The fight to free innocent hostages from extremist control.

Key Success Factors

• Renowned Director: Martin Campbell's name is synonymous with impactful action films, drawing in audiences.

• Strong Lead Performance: Eva Green brings intensity and credibility to her role as the commando leader.

• High-Stakes Premise: A timely and compelling plot involving hostage rescue in a dangerous region.

• Focus on Realistic Action: Campbell's commitment to portraying believable combat for the female unit differentiates it.

• Ensemble Cast: Features well-known talents like Maria Bakalova and Ruby Rose.

Awards and Nominations

As a 2024 release, Dirty Angels (2024) has not yet had significant opportunities to accrue major awards or nominations. Initial critical reception has been mixed, which might impact its awards season presence.

Critical Reception

Critical reception for Dirty Angels (2024) has been mixed to negative, particularly from major outlets, as reflected in its Metascore of 42 out of 100 ("Mixed or Average") based on 4 critic reviews. User scores are generally unfavorable.

• Praise:

  • Some critics noted Martin Campbell's "surehanded direction" and Eva Green's "stellar" performance, particularly her commitment to the action scenes. The Hollywood Outsider found it "a pulpy good time" and "yet another entertaining bloodbath."

  • Campbell's intent to portray the action as realistic for the female unit was acknowledged.

• Criticism:

  • A common critique was the script's shortcomings, with some reviewers finding it generic despite having multiple writers. Characters, beyond Eva Green's lead, were often described as "archetypes rather than rounded individuals," making it "hard to care for them."

  • The film was sometimes seen as "too serious and too overtly political for its own good" without making a clear, meaningful statement beyond being a "simple, jingoistic actioner."

  • Some pointed out technical flaws, such as "shoddy CGI" (digital blood, gunfire, explosions), attributed to Millennium production's usual issues.

  • The New York Times stated it "Suffers from the discord between the real-life conflicts that make up its setting and the cartoonish characters who propel its plot."

  • RogerEbert.com deemed it a "blown opportunity to say something meaningful amid the mayhem," especially regarding women's rights in its chosen setting.

Overall, while Martin Campbell's direction and Eva Green's performance received some praise, the film's script and execution were often found lacking, leading to a largely lukewarm reception.

Reviews

Reviews for Dirty Angels (2024) highlight a common pattern of strengths and weaknesses:

• Martin Campbell's Direction: Critics acknowledge his experience in crafting action sequences, noting the film's "tense, close quarter combat scenes" and its R-rated, graphic violence. He's praised for attempting a realistic portrayal of an all-female unit's capabilities.

• Eva Green's Performance: Green is consistently lauded for her commitment to the role, throwing herself into the action and delivering a "convincing heroine" even when the script is thin.

• Script Weaknesses: This is the most consistent point of criticism. Reviewers often felt the screenplay lacked depth, describing supporting characters as underdeveloped "archetypes" and the plot as "simple" or "generic." The film's attempt at political relevance was seen as superficial or "jingoistic" without a clear message.

• Action Pacing: Some reviews noted the film started more as a thriller with slower build-up, taking almost an hour to deliver substantial action, but then becoming more action-heavy in its second half.

• Visual Effects: Millennium Media's typical CGI issues (fake-looking blood, gunfire, sub-par explosions) were often mentioned as detractors.

In summary, while the film delivers on basic action thrills thanks to Campbell's direction and Green's performance, its generic script and underdeveloped characters prevented it from reaching the heights of Campbell's best works.

Box Office

Dirty Angels (2024) had a limited theatrical release and a primary focus on digital and VOD distribution.

• Budget: €35 million

• Worldwide Box Office: The available data (as of January 2025) shows a very limited theatrical gross, around $27,270 worldwide.

• Domestic (USA) Box Office: Very limited, reported as $0 from its December 13, 2024 release. This suggests it was primarily a digital/VOD release in the US.

• Key International Territories (limited theatrical): Croatia ($27,270 from a January 3, 2025 release), Russia/CIS (December 12, 2024 release, with no reported gross in one source, but other sources indicating some revenue for an earlier, possibly different film with similar title).

Given its budget, the theatrical box office performance was significantly low, indicating it did not find a wide audience in cinemas. Its main revenue stream would be from digital sales and streaming.

Production Summary

Dirty Angels (2024) is an action-thriller film with a runtime of 1 hour and 52 minutes (some sources list 1h 44m). It is directed by Martin Campbell, who also contributed to the story alongside Jonas McCord. The screenplay was also co-written by Campbell (and possibly Alissa Sullivan Haggis and Gene Quintano, according to some unconfirmed sources).

• Budget: €35 million.

• Producers: Moshe Diamant, Robert Van Norden, and Yariv Lerner.

• Cast: Eva Green (Jake), Maria Bakalova (The Bomb), Ruby Rose (Medic), Jojo T. Gibbs (Geek), Rona-Lee Shimon (Rocky/Mechanic), Emily Bruni (Shooter), George Iskandar (Amir), Christopher Backus (Travis), and Laëtitia Eïdo (Awina).

• Production Companies: Millennium Media, Nu Boyana Film Studios, and Nu Image.

• Country: United States.

• Language: English.

• Filming Location: Likely shot at Nu Boyana Film Studios in Bulgaria, a common location for Millennium Media productions.

Production Companies

• Millennium Media

• Nu Boyana Film Studios

• Nu Image

Sales Companies

Specific sales companies are not widely available in the provided information, but the film was distributed by Lionsgate Films in the USA and Lionsgate Play for streaming.

Distribution Companies

• Lionsgate Films (USA - Theatrical, Limited; VOD)

• Lionsgate Home Entertainment (Digital Release)

• Lionsgate Play (Streaming - from March 14, 2025)

• Various international distributors for limited theatrical runs (e.g., in Croatia, Russia/CIS, Spain).

Streaming Release Date

Dirty Angels (2024) was released for digital rental/purchase (VOD) on December 13, 2024. It began streaming on Lionsgate Play from March 14, 2025.

Theatrical Release

Dirty Angels (2024) had a limited theatrical release in the USA on December 13, 2024. It also saw limited international theatrical releases starting December 12, 2024, in territories like Russia/CIS, Croatia (January 3, 2025), and Spain (January 24, 2025).

Why to Recommend the Movie

• Martin Campbell's Direction: Fans of his action films might find enjoyment in his signature style, even if the script is criticized.

• Eva Green's Performance: She delivers a committed and intense lead performance, carrying much of the film's weight.

• All-Female Commando Unit: Offers a unique take on military action, with the director aiming for realistic portrayal of female operatives.

• High-Stakes Action: The premise of rescuing schoolgirls from terrorists provides inherent tension.

Why to Watch the Movie

• If you're a fan of Martin Campbell's action films: You might appreciate his directorial hand in the action sequences.

• If you enjoy military-themed thrillers: Especially those focusing on special operations.

• For Eva Green's intense performance: She is a compelling lead in the action genre.

• If you prefer R-rated action: The film does not shy away from graphic violence.

Movie Trend

Dirty Angels (2024) aligns with the ongoing trend of Female-Led Action Films, though with a particular emphasis on realism in combat for the all-female unit, as intended by the director. It also fits into the enduring popularity of Military Thrillers and Hostage Rescue Narratives. The film's primary distribution through VOD and streaming platforms, rather than a wide theatrical release, is characteristic of many action films from production companies like Millennium Media.

Social Trend

The film is set against the backdrop of the US Withdrawal from Afghanistan, a significant geopolitical event, and touches upon the continued threat of Terrorism and Hostage Crises. The portrayal of an All-Female Commando Unit speaks to broader discussions around women's roles in combat and positions of leadership, reflecting a societal push for greater representation and capability in traditionally male-dominated fields. However, the mixed critical reception regarding its political messaging suggests it might have missed an opportunity to engage more deeply with themes of women's rights in the region.

Final Verdict

Dirty Angels (2024), directed by action veteran Martin Campbell and starring the formidable Eva Green, is a high-stakes action-thriller set against the backdrop of the US withdrawal from Afghanistan. It follows an elite, all-female commando unit as they undertake a perilous undercover mission to rescue schoolgirls held hostage by terrorists. While Campbell's signature direction delivers intense and graphically realistic action sequences, and Eva Green provides a compelling and committed lead performance, the film's critical reception has been mixed. Reviewers often pointed to a generic script with underdeveloped supporting characters and a superficial engagement with its timely political setting. Despite these shortcomings, Dirty Angels offers a gritty, R-rated action fix for fans of the genre and those who appreciate Green's fierce screen presence.

Recommendations for filmmakers

• Prioritize Script Development: Even with a strong director and lead, a weak script can hinder a film's overall impact. Invest heavily in compelling character arcs and nuanced storytelling, especially when tackling sensitive geopolitical settings.

• Balance Action and Character: While action is crucial for the genre, ensure supporting characters are more than archetypes to make the high stakes resonate emotionally with the audience.

• Consider Political Nuance: When setting a film against real-world conflicts, aim for a deeper and more thoughtful engagement with the sociopolitical context to avoid being perceived as superficial or jingoistic.

• Optimize VFX for Budget: If working with a significant budget, ensure visual effects meet quality standards to maintain immersion and credibility for an action film.

• Show, Don't Just Tell: Allow characters' backstories and motivations to unfold organically through their actions and interactions rather than relying on exposition.

Recommendations for Movie Industry

• Support Strong Screenwriting in Action Films: Recognize that even in action-heavy genres, a well-developed script elevates the entire production and can attract broader critical acclaim.

• Champion Diverse Narratives for Action Heroines: While female-led action films are gaining traction, encourage stories that provide these characters with rich, complex inner lives beyond their combat skills.

• Be Mindful of Geopolitical Context: When producing films set in real-world conflict zones, ensure the narrative contributes meaningfully to the discourse and avoids oversimplification.

• Strategic Distribution Planning: For films that may not be massive theatrical blockbusters, optimize VOD and streaming release strategies to maximize reach and revenue.

• Invest in Quality VFX Across All Budget Tiers: Poor visual effects can detract from the viewing experience even in otherwise strong action sequences; continuous improvement in this area is vital.

Final Conclusions

Dirty Angels (2024) by Martin Campbell is an action-thriller focusing on an elite, all-female commando unit led by Eva Green, tasked with rescuing schoolgirls held hostage in Afghanistan. This film delivers high-stakes, graphically realistic action as the team navigates double-crosses and personal demons in a do-or-die mission, showcasing intense combat and a focus on female capabilities in a war-torn region.