Movie Review: Olympus Has Fallen

Posted April 3, 2013 by shooting in Uncategorized / 12 Comments

Movie: Olympus Has Fallen

Review by Lauren

IMDB Summary: Disgraced former Presidential guard Mike Banning finds himself trapped inside the White House in the wake of a terrorist attack; using his inside knowledge, Banning works with national security to rescue the President from his kidnappers.

Review: To be honest, I didn’t want to see this movie. I knew my brother did (still does) but that makes sense. It just didn’t seem like a movie I would like. However, a friend of mine and my sister both wanted to go and there really wasn’t any other movie options, so I agreed to check it out.

By now, you can probably tell where this review is going.

Yes, I actually enjoyed Olympus Has Fallen. It’s definitely an action-packed film. If you don’t like action of any kind, then you probably won’t enjoy the movie. But if you’re curious to check it out or the guy (or sister) in your life is pushing you to go, you might find it more enjoyable than you first thought.

I’m not one of those Gerard Butler groupies, so I haven’t seen him in much, but I can say he’s great as Mike Banning. You can tell how much he loves his job and how he’s half a person without it. This is why he runs to aid the White House, seemingly without a second thought. Thank goodness he does, or the President and the United States would most likely be doomed.

Yes, that part is a bit ridiculous and far-fetched. Do we really believe one man can do what so many others are unable to? Probably not, but it makes for one kick-ass hero in an action flick.

Apart from Butler, I felt like all the actors did a great job. I was really amazed by Melissa Leo’s character, Secretary of Defense, Ruth McMillan. She holds out against the terrorists (North Koreans, by the way…they do seem to be the go-to enemy for films these days) and is not one to easily back down. I thought it was great that the film showed how women can be just as strong as men and that they too are proud of their country and are willing to fight for it. Hopefully, if you see the movie, you will appreciate that addition as well.

Finally, I must mention the addition of humor. This might seem like an odd addition to an action film about terrorists attacking the White House…but it really works. Most, if not all, the humor comes from Mike Banning and it suits his character well. He’s, in all honesty, a bad ass. He is willing to do whatever it takes, no matter what might happen to him in the process. He uses his humor/sarcasm in dealing with his enemies at the same time…much to the enjoyment of the audience!

The only quote available on IMDB is below, but it is a great one (Warning: use of bad language, if that bothers you):

Mike Banning: Here’s a game we can play. It’s called “Go Fuck Yourself”. You go first.

What do you think? Is this a movie you will see? If you have already, share your thoughts in the comments!

12 responses to “Movie Review: Olympus Has Fallen

  1. I don't know that I've even heard of this movie (keep in mind we don't really get TV so we don't see previews) and I'm not big on action films, but I do love Gerard Butler so I might want to watch it with my hubby once it's out on DVD!

  2. I haven't ever heard of this, and I love visiting your blog and finding out about new movies!

    I don't mind action movies every now and then and I really like when they include humour, so you've sold me!

  3. This is actually the first time I am hearing about this film. It definitely sounds interesting; just not something that I would see. :/

  4. Humor is essential in action movies such as this one. And what do you mean, you're not one of Gerard Butler groupies? I thought everyone is!
    I don't watch that many movies, but when I do, I want something highly entertaining, just like this.
    Great review.

  5. I haven't even heard of this movie. I am so lame and behind on movies these days. I have kids what can I say? I do think I would like it though. I am a sucker for action movies and the humor sounds like something I would love as well. Thanks so much for calling this to my attention, Lauren.

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