When the trailer for Heads of State first dropped, I won’t lie, my expectations were very low. The film seemed like one of those quick cash-grab, straight-to-OTT releases with a stellar cast and a hollow plot. However, I’m thrilled to say that John Cena, Idris Elba, and Priyanka Chopra Jonas’ starrer is not that! Buddy comedies have always been a reliable formula in cinema, from lovable cop duos to rogue college friends – we’ve seen it all. But Heads of State brings a refreshing twist: the same bickering, banter, and brotherhood, this time between two world leaders – the President of the United States and the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Packed with thrills, high action, and plenty of puns, here is our review of Ilya Naishuller’s Heads of State.
Plot Of Heads of State
The world is on the brink of war, alliances are breaking, and international relations are wavering. In Heads of State, the stakes are high as NATO, the transnational military alliance of 32 European and two North American states, is on the verge of collapse.
A Russian arms dealer, Viktor Gradov (Paddy Considine), infiltrates a high-security facility and leaks secretive information. The film begins as newly elected action heartthrob turned President of America, Will Derringer (John Cena), is tasked with building good relations with the stoic and ever-so-practical British Prime Minister Sam Clarke (Idris Elba).
Due to their clashing personalities and that one time Clarke had fish and chips with Derringer’s political rival, the two heads of state cannot stand each other. They are then forced to put on a front by flying together to Trieste, Italy, for the NATO summit. Things take a turn when their flight is hijacked, and Will and Sam then jump off the plane and find their way to Trieste through dense forests, hostile locals and multiple assassination attempts.
While the world presumes them dead, Will and Sam, with the help of MI6 special agent Noel Bisset (Priyanka Chopra), must make it to the summit on time to stop NATO from collapsing.
Performances
John Cena as Will Derringer
Will Derringer may initially seem like a parody of Donald Trump. Both transitioned from unconventional careers to the presidency. However, what sets Derringer apart is his earnest and lovable nature. Although sometimes clueless, he is a man on a mission to improve the world. Cena’s performance is energetic and enjoyable.
Idris Elba as Sam Clarke
Sam Clarke is a no-nonsense leader in his sixth term. Idris Elba brings the character to life with a typically stoic performance. Though guarded, Elba effortlessly offers glimpses into Clarke’s inner turmoil.
Priyanka Chopra as Noel Bisset
Watching Priyanka Chopra play the fierce MI6 agent, Noel Bisset, reminds you why she is considered Bollywood royalty. She is flawless, charming, and completely formidable. All the combat and high kicks she delivers reinforce that she is here to stay.
Verdict: An Entertaining, Light Watch Without Much Substance
If you’re looking for a social commentary on global politics, Heads of State may not be for you. Yes, there are a few political jokes – my favourite being the throwback to George Bush and the infamous shoe incident, but overall, this film is just meant to entertain and make you laugh.
The characters often land in ridiculous situations where they must run for their lives, and watching them navigate these keeps the adrenaline high. The chemistry between Cena and Elba is a key factor in what carries the film. Also, Jack Quaid’s short appearance as a bumbling but insanely cool special agent is definitely a scene-stealer! Heads of State is marketed as a political action comedy, but it falls a bit short on the comedy. Priyanka’s puns may earn a few chuckles, but this is unlikely to make anyone’s list of the funniest films.
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The climax becomes mildly preachy in a ‘we are all in this together’ sort of way, but it is just the right amount of corniness you would expect. Ilya Naishuller’s direction keeps things fun and fast-paced. The soundtrack, while not particularly memorable, is the right addition to the action. In short, Heads of State may not be the most intellectually engaging or laugh-out-loud political satire film ever made, but it delivers a good time with a cast full of chemistry and charm.
Heads of State will be available to stream from July 2 on Prime Video!
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