Ambulance (2022) is a high-octane action thriller directed by Michael Bay, known for his signature style of explosive, fast-paced filmmaking. Starring Jake Gyllenhaal as Danny Sharp, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II as his adoptive brother Will Sharp, and Eiza González as EMT Cam Thompson, the film is set in Los Angeles and follows the intense and chaotic journey of two brothers on the run after a heist gone wrong. With its breathtaking chase scenes and relentless energy, Ambulance explores themes of family loyalty, desperation, and the consequences of crime in a high-stakes world.

The story begins with Will Sharp, a decorated war veteran, who is facing severe financial difficulties. Desperate to afford the medical treatment his wife needs, Will turns to his adoptive brother Danny, who has a history of crime and a reputation as a master thief. Danny, while often reckless, is fiercely loyal to his family and offers Will a way to solve his financial crisis—but at a high risk. He proposes a bank heist that promises a massive payday. Despite his reservations, Will agrees, as he feels he has no other option to help his family.

The heist, however, does not go as planned. When things quickly spiral out of control, a shootout ensues, and they’re forced to escape in an ambulance to avoid capture. Inside the ambulance is Cam Thompson, a skilled and dedicated EMT who is caught in the middle of this life-threatening situation. To make matters worse, an injured police officer is also in the ambulance, adding another layer of tension as Danny and Will must keep him alive to avoid a murder charge. The ambulance becomes both a literal and figurative vehicle of survival and escape as the brothers find themselves pursued by the police across the city.

A major theme in Ambulance is the tension between loyalty and morality. Will’s choice to join Danny in the heist is driven by a desperate need to protect his family, but he finds himself increasingly conflicted as the situation escalates. Danny, on the other hand, represents a different perspective on loyalty—one that is unrestrained by ethics or the law. His loyalty to Will drives him to extreme lengths, but his actions reveal a more chaotic and impulsive nature that often puts both of them in greater danger.

The dynamic between Danny and Will showcases the conflict between love for family and the destructive path of crime. Danny’s relentless, almost reckless energy contrasts with Will’s sense of responsibility, making their relationship a complex balance of camaraderie and conflict. Danny often seems to thrive in the chaos, while Will is visibly troubled by the escalating violence. This tension brings a psychological depth to the film, as both brothers are forced to confront their own limitations and the consequences of their actions.

Cam Thompson, the EMT caught in the middle, also plays a crucial role in the narrative. Her dedication to her work and her resilience make her a compelling character as she is thrust into this extreme situation. Throughout the film, she exhibits both bravery and resourcefulness, striving to save the injured police officer even as her own life is at risk. Her interactions with Will, who is still guided by a moral compass despite his involvement in the heist, reveal a shared humanity that contrasts with the chaotic and violent environment around them.

The film’s action sequences are intense and meticulously crafted, showcasing Michael Bay’s expertise in directing large-scale chase scenes and explosive stunts. The streets of Los Angeles become a sprawling battleground as the police attempt to capture the fleeing ambulance, leading to scenes that are both thrilling and visually stunning. The tight, confined space of the ambulance amplifies the tension, as the characters are forced to navigate life-or-death scenarios within its narrow confines. This setting also creates a sense of claustrophobia, heightening the urgency of each moment as the ambulance races through crowded streets, crashes through obstacles, and narrowly avoids collision after collision.

Ambulance also touches on themes of survival and sacrifice. Will’s motivation throughout the film is his need to provide for his family, and this desperation drives him to make choices that conflict with his values. His background as a war veteran adds depth to his character, as he’s already experienced life-threatening situations and made sacrifices for others. This sense of duty and the sacrifices he has already made stand in contrast to the life of crime that Danny embraces. Will’s actions throughout the film reflect his internal struggle, as he’s torn between his loyalty to Danny and his own moral convictions.

The ending of Ambulance is both intense and tragic, as it brings the brothers face-to-face with the consequences of their actions. The high-speed pursuit finally reaches a breaking point, leaving both Will and Danny with difficult choices to make. The resolution reflects the film’s themes of family and morality, forcing the characters to reckon with the lives they have affected. In the final moments, the film underscores the idea that even the most desperate choices have lasting repercussions, and that loyalty to family sometimes demands painful sacrifices.

Since its release, Ambulance has received praise for its relentless pacing and well-executed action scenes. Michael Bay’s direction brings a cinematic energy to the film, creating a sense of chaos and excitement that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. While the film is rooted in action, its exploration of family, loyalty, and the limits of morality gives it an emotional core that resonates beyond the thrills. Ambulance serves as a reminder of the lengths people will go to protect their loved ones, and the costs that often come with such choices.