Dead Shot (2023)
Set in Northern Ireland at the peak of the Troubles, in 1975 in South Armagh, this film follows IRA paramilitary member Michael (played by Colin Morgan) who is evading British forces. He takes a significant risk to be by his pregnant wife's side when she goes into labor. However, the British troops have been tipped off, and in the resulting ambush, Michael's wife is tragically killed by Tempest (portrayed by Aml Ameen) in a case of mistaken identity.
Viewers who crave a relatable character might struggle with the ensuing conflict between the heartless IRA militant and the sharpshooter who unintentionally caused the death of his wife. The gritty thriller takes place in a depiction of 1970s London reminiscent of Grand Theft Auto, where the streets are cluttered with discarded furniture, flaming oil drums, and vintage Ford Cortinas spinning out of control during moments of low action.
Tempest's boss, the leader of a special anti-terrorism squad in the Metropolitan police, played by Mark Strong, leaves a pleasingly slippery impression in the film. However, the rest of the characters are not well developed, resulting in underpowered performances.