Starring: Angelina Jolie
Genre: Action, Thriller
Director: Phillip Noyce
In the 2010 action thriller Salt, Angelina Jolie takes center stage as Evelyn Salt, a CIA agent whose loyalty is tested when she is accused of being a Russian spy. What follows is a relentless cat-and-mouse game filled with deception, explosive stunts, and non-stop momentum.
Jolie, known for her fierce portrayals of strong female leads, delivers a riveting performance that elevates the film beyond a standard espionage thriller. She embodies Salt with a perfect mix of intensity, vulnerability, and physical prowess. Her commitment to the role—performing many of her own stunts—adds authenticity and excitement to the fast-paced sequences.
The plot, though at times implausible, keeps viewers guessing. Is Salt a traitor or a patriot? The film smartly avoids giving easy answers, instead crafting a morally ambiguous narrative that unfolds with tension and unpredictability. Director Phillip Noyce maintains a high-octane pace, though some may feel the story leans too heavily on action at the expense of deeper character development.
Visually, Salt is sleek and gritty. The chase scenes across rooftops and highways are expertly choreographed, and James Newton Howard’s intense score enhances the suspense. However, the film’s dialogue is occasionally cliché, and the secondary characters aren’t given much room to shine.
Still, Salt succeeds as a showcase for Angelina Jolie’s star power and as a throwback to Cold War-style spy thrillers. It’s an entertaining ride that leaves the door open for sequels and spins a web of intrigue that lingers after the credits roll.
