High Heat

High Heat movie review (2022)

Zach Golden’s directorial venture, “High Heat,” ambitiously blends the realms of action and comedy, yet ultimately falters in its endeavor to provide a truly gratifying cinematic experience. Despite showcasing well-executed action sequences that underscore Golden’s directorial finesse, the film stumbles in several critical facets, leaving an overall sense of emptiness.

The narrative revolves around Ana (played by Olga Kurylenko), a talented chef and co-owner of a restaurant alongside her husband Ray (portrayed by Don Johnson). As their eatery gears up for a momentous opening night, the kitchen atmosphere brims with tension, with Ana’s meticulous disposition clashing against the festivity of the occasion. The trajectory takes a somber turn when Ray’s former acquaintance, Dom (enacted by Dallas Page), demands a considerable debt settlement. The situation escalates as Dom’s henchmen resort to arson, prompting Ana to take matters into her own capable hands.



Golden’s proficiency in crafting engaging action scenes is indisputable, captivating the audience’s attention during these high-energy junctures. Nonetheless, the film stumbles when it comes to sustaining the same level of captivation across its entirety. This shortcoming is further exacerbated by James Pedersen’s script, which lacks the necessary depth and intrigue to propel an authentically riveting storyline. The comedic elements interwoven into the narrative often fall short of their intended impact, failing to evoke the desired humor.

The film boasts a cast of accomplished actors, including the likes of Olga Kurylenko and Don Johnson, both recognized for their compelling performances in other projects. Regrettably, “High Heat” falls short in harnessing the full potential of these talents, resulting in characters that feel underdeveloped and lacking in complexity.



While Kurylenko’s expertise shines through in the action sequences, drawing upon her prior experience from films like “Quantum of Solace,” the film struggles to construct a cohesive narrative that complements her skills. Johnson’s portrayal is commendable, but even his presence cannot wholly salvage the film’s shortcomings.

To encapsulate, “High Heat” aspires to seamlessly merge action and comedy within the span of a single night, yet falls shy due to its uninspired script and lackluster execution. While moments of levity are present, the overarching progression of the narrative diminishes the potential impact. Despite the participation of a noteworthy cast and well-crafted action sequences, the film fails to leave a lasting impression and is unlikely to carve a distinctive niche within its genre. It becomes an overnight escapade struggling to set itself apart from analogous offerings.