Carrying the tough-guy persona that propelled him to WWF greatness, John Cena gives a surprisingly strong performance in the action adventure film 12 Rounds. Directed by veteran filmmaker Renny Harlin, the feature is much stronger than expected as it entertains audiences with an interesting concept and a whole lot of action. And while the story is slightly lacking and the repetitive formula gives cause for doubt, I can honestly say that I left the theater in a state of shock, incidentally enjoying my time in front of the screen.
With that said, I also must clarify by saying that the film is nowhere near perfect as there are plenty of things to nitpick about. But underneath the stereotypical cop drama lies a humane factor that rarely shows itself during such moments. Sure the maneuver on-screen are full of melodrama and would never occur in 'real' life, but they make for great entertainment, and in the end, that is what we all long for.
In the film, John Cena stars as Danny Fisher, a detective whose worst nightmare has just come true. One year ago today, Fisher single handily took down one of the nation's most notorious criminals. But now, unbeknownst to him, the guy is back on the streets and has kidnapped his live-in girlfriend. If he ever wants to see her again, he will have to navigate his way through twelve rounds of do-or-die heroics.
Sounds generic, believe me it is. Yet somehow, John Cena is able to create interest from those watching on, brining an unexpected sense of urgency to the forefront as audience members attempt to sort out the good from the bad. And when it goes bad, it goes outlandishly bad.
While relative newcomers Ashley Scott and Brian White give acceptable performances as Danny's girlfriend and partner respectively, much of your attention is drawn to Special Agent George Aiken, played by TV veteran Steve Harris. Full of arrogance and undeniable hatred, Aiken is an unwelcome presence to the film as he creates an unneeded outside obstacle for Danny. His actions are all forced as he represents the 'changing-man' within the film, generating another stereotypical layer to the film. Blame it on the writing or on the Harris himself, but something went terribly wrong during the development of this unneeded character.
But as time closes in, and the fateful reunion is only moments away, one most put the entire film into perspective. It is not perfect; in fact, I wouldn't even say that it was great. But one that it is is entertaining; and in this day and age, that is enough to write home about.
