Directed by: Martin Campbell
Distributed by: Quiver Distribution
Written by Nick McCann
70/100
“Die Hard” didn’t just spawn sequels—it birthed an entire subgenre. For decades, studios have been chasing that Nakatomi Plaza lightning in a bottle, with results ranging from memorable to instantly forgettable. Even today, the formula’s persistence makes you wonder if there’s still juice left in the concept. Martin Campbell’s “Cleaner” proves there might be, even if it doesn’t reinvent the wheel.
Campbell brings his trademark energy to familiar territory, hitting all the expected beats while adding just enough personal flair to keep things interesting. The action stays grounded and purposeful—quick, brutal bursts rather than drawn-out spectacles for spectacle’s sake. The plot even manages a few surprises that prevent the formula from feeling completely paint-by-numbers. Nothing here revolutionizes the genre, but “Cleaner” executes its mission with enough style to justify its existence.
Daisy Ridley trades lightsabers for a grittier brand of action, and the shift suits her. She brings genuine likability to her role through sharp-tongued quips and believable sibling chemistry with Matthew Tuck. Speaking of Tuck, kudos for portraying a character with a neurodevelopmental disorder without falling into tired savant stereotypes. The supporting cast fills their roles adequately—Ruth Gemmel commands authority as the police commissioner, Taz Skyler chews scenery as a terrorist begging for a beatdown, and Clive Owen does solid work in limited screen time.
The film takes its sweet time before Ridley gets her hands dirty, which might test patience levels depending on your appetite for setup. Once the action kicks in, though, Campbell and his team deliver tight, brutal fight sequences that feel refreshingly old-school. The camerawork and editing give us clean, coherent action without relying on the now-ubiquitous 87Eleven “John Wick” style. Even the visual effects, particularly the high-rise exteriors, look convincing enough to sell the stakes.
“Cleaner” sits comfortably in the middle tier of “Die Hard” knockoffs—it won’t blow anyone’s mind, but it delivers solid entertainment for those willing to meet it halfway. While the story occasionally stumbles, Campbell’s direction and Ridley’s committed performance elevate the material just enough to stand out from the pack. Sometimes a well-executed comfort watch is exactly what you need.
“Cleaner” Trailer
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