Director Baltasar Kormákur is taking us to the edge with his new thriller Apex, which is now streaming on Netflix. So, the question is, is it any good? We will explore that in this review.
From Mourning to Manhunt
The narrative follows a grieving adrenaline junkie (Charlize Theron) who ventures into the wilderness to find closure after her boyfriend’s fatal climbing accident. Her path crosses with a deceptively charismatic stranger (Taron Egerton) whose “nice guy” facade quickly dissolves, revealing an apex predator with a stomach-turning penchant for turning his victims into jerky, which he sells in town. What follows is a relentless pursuit where the hunter becomes the hunted.
A Brilliant Cast
Charlize Theron delivers an uncompromising performance. She portrays a woman who isn’t just “fighting back” in the traditional sense; she is utilizing her athletic prowess and survival instincts to dismantle her captor. Theron has had many roles in many genres, including her gritty portrayal of a serial killer in Monster, but she was absolutely fantastic in this. The role suits her well.
Theron isn’t the only star in this film; Taron Egerton was amazing as the killer, Ben. He really brought the twisted and emotionally stunted killer to life and even had me feeling bad for the guy (sort of). While he’s very much a villain, you also get brief glimpses of emotional fragility that give the character depth.
Why It Works
The violence feels tactile and earned, emphasizing the physical toll the environment and the antagonist take on the protagonist.
The Australian Outback is captured in stunning, wide-angle cinematography. It highlights both its beauty and its isolation. It acts as an inescapable arena that heightens the film’s claustrophobic tension despite the open space.
In a genre often criticized for the exploitation of female victims, Apex stands out. It focuses on the survivor’s agency and resilience, making it a refreshing entry for fans of intense, character-driven thrillers.
The Verdict
Apex is a masterclass in subverting the “damsel in distress” trope, delivering a survival thriller that is as emotionally heavy as it is physically brutal. Set against the vast, unforgiving canvas of the Australian Outback, the film transforms a journey of grief into a high-octane battle for existence.
However, I will say that there are moments where the suspension of disbelief is needed, especially when it comes to surviving nature unharmed.
Apex skips the fluff and dives straight into a non-stop, blood-pumping chase that respects its audience and its lead characters. It’s a visceral reminder that some people are simply not meant to be victims. If you’re looking for a film that balances emotional stakes with unapologetic, bone-crunching action, Apex is a must-watch.
