Netflix viewers are flocking to a new survival thriller that has been described as so intense it 'will make you never want to leave your house again.' The film, titled 'Apex,' stars Hollywood actress Charlize Theron as a woman desperately trying to outrun a blood-thirsty hunter in the Australian wilderness. Released on the streaming service just days ago, the movie has quickly soared to the top of Netflix's charts in the UK, becoming the most-watched film on the platform.
Plot and Cast
In 'Apex,' Charlize Theron portrays Sasha, a grieving mountain climber who embarks on a solo trip following the death of her husband Tommy, played by Eric Bana. Her journey takes a terrifying turn when she encounters Ben, a character brought to life by Taron Egerton. Ben is described as a 'ruthless and lethal predator' who informs Sasha of his intent to kill her but grants her a head start to run for her life. This sets the stage for a gripping game of cat and mouse that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
Critical Acclaim
The film has not only captured the attention of audiences but has also garnered praise from critics. Collider highlighted the physicality of Charlize Theron's performance and the film's vertigo-inducing cinematography, calling 'Apex' an 'adventure vacation from hell worth taking.' RogerEbert.com commended the movie for prioritizing 'white-knuckle thrills over excessive emotion,' describing it as a gorgeously shot picture about survival and fortitude. Decider declared 'Apex' a 'relentless, exciting, and nerve-rattlingly scary thriller,' while The Wall Street Journal noted that Theron may be giving the most athletically demanding performance of her action-movie career, calling the film spectacular despite certain clichés.
Viewer Reactions
Viewers have taken to social media to express their excitement, calling the film 'intense' and a 'damn good survival thriller' that left them on the edge of their seats. The movie's ability to evoke such strong reactions is a testament to its gripping narrative and powerful performances.
Cast Insights
In an interview with Netflix's Tudum, Charlize Theron shared her enthusiasm for the project, stating that the script 'really fired up my brain.' She added, 'When I read the script, I couldn't put it down and it stayed with me. It felt very pure but with great impact. The bite and the kick were so strong in what it was trying to accomplish without bells and whistles, and I loved that.' Theron described the film as an action-adventure psychological thriller about survival, both physically and emotionally, and about discovering one's true strength.
Taron Egerton, whose character is described as a 'twisted psychopath with a taste for blood and a hunting skill to match,' revealed that the extremity of the role appealed to him. 'When I was offered the chance to play Ben, who is just about the most f***ed-up character I've ever played, there was something delicious and irresistible about it,' he said.
'Apex' is now streaming on Netflix, offering viewers a thrilling escape into the wilds of Australia.
