Set in 1989, Panama follows James Becker (Cole Hauser), a former Marine grappling with the grief of his wife’s death. Recruited by CIA operative Stark (Mel Gibson), Becker is tasked with a covert mission in Panama: facilitating an arms deal involving a Soviet helicopter, intended to support Nicaraguan Contras and undermine Panamanian dictator Manuel Noriega. Disguised as a casino consultant, Becker navigates a web of deceit, betrayal, and political intrigue, leading him into the heart of a dangerous conspiracy.Cole Hauser delivers a solid performance as Becker, embodying the role of a battle-hardened operative with a personal vendetta. His portrayal adds depth to the character, making Becker’s journey compelling. Mel Gibson, as Stark, brings his signature intensity to the role, though his screen time is limited. The supporting cast, including Mauricio Hénao and Kiara Liz, contribute effectively to the narrative, though some characters lack sufficient development.Directed by Mark Neveldine, known for high-octane films like Crank, Panama adopts a more subdued approach. While the film attempts to capture the essence of 1980s action thrillers, it occasionally falters in pacing and tone. The cinematography effectively conveys the tension and atmosphere of the period, though some sequences may feel disjointed.Panama is a film that pays homage to the political thrillers of the 1980s, offering a blend of action and intrigue. While it may not reach the heights of its predecessors, it serves as a competent entry in the genre. For those interested in historical dramas with a touch of espionage, Panama is worth a watch.
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