Salt (2010)

“Salt” (2010) is an action thriller film directed by Phillip Noyce and written by Kurt Wimmer. The film stars Angelina Jolie in the title role, with Liev Schreiber, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Daniel Olbrychski in supporting roles.

The story follows Evelyn Salt (Angelina Jolie), a highly skilled CIA officer. The film begins with Salt being accused of being a Russian sleeper spy by a defector named Orlov (Daniel Olbrychski). Orlov claims that Salt is part of a covert Russian program aimed at infiltrating the United States government and assassinating the president. Salt denies the accusation but soon finds herself on the run, using her training and resourcefulness to evade capture by her own agency.

As Salt goes on the run, her motives become ambiguous, and it is unclear whether she is trying to clear her name or if she indeed has a hidden agenda. Her superior, Ted Winter (Liev Schreiber), and CIA counter-intelligence officer Peabody (Chiwetel Ejiofor) lead the efforts to capture her, leading to a series of intense chases and confrontations.
The film delves into themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the complex nature of espionage. Throughout her journey, Salt’s true allegiance remains a mystery, keeping both the characters and the audience guessing. The narrative is filled with twists and turns, as Salt tries to uncover the truth about her identity and her past.

“Salt” is known for its fast-paced action sequences, including daring stunts, hand-to-hand combat, and high-speed chases. Angelina Jolie’s performance as Evelyn Salt is central to the film’s appeal, showcasing her physicality and charisma in a role that blends intelligence, toughness, and vulnerability.
The film’s direction by Phillip Noyce ensures a sleek and suspenseful atmosphere, supported by James Newton Howard’s tense musical score. The cinematography captures the urgency and danger of Salt’s situation, with a variety of locations and set pieces that add to the excitement.
Upon its release, “Salt” received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised Jolie’s performance and the film’s action sequences. The movie was also a commercial success, grossing over $293 million worldwide.

“Salt” remains a notable entry in the action thriller genre, distinguished by its strong female lead and intricate plot. The film’s blend of high-stakes espionage and relentless action makes it a gripping and entertaining ride from start to finish.