Kelly Blatz wrote and directed the American action flick “One Fast Move,” which was released today. The film stars KJ Apa as Wes Neal, who goes on a high-stakes journey filled with thrilling experiences (according to the synopsis).

Now that it is out, fans of KJ Apa might be wondering how the movie is and if it is worth a watch. So, keep reading the article if you want to decide whether or not you want to watch the movie.  

One Fast Move Review
Credits: Prime Video

A Promising Plot That Falls Flat in One Fast Move

The plot revolves around Wes Neal who is a young veteran raised by a single mother whose life spirals worse after being arrested by police. His time in military jail leads to parole and the loss of his military service benefits, pushing him to seek a new beginning.

After his mother dies, Wes sets out to find his biological father, Dean. Dean, who has never met Wes, left to pursue a career in road course racing and now works for Abel who owns a failing motorcycle shop.

This premise contains all of the elements for a thrilling, emotional drama: estranged father and son, the high-octane world of racing, and the possibility of a great story.

Unfortunately, “One Fast Move” fails to completely realize its potential. Blatz’s script, rather than delving into the complexities of its characters and the sport it depicts, is heavy on broad strokes and well-worn tropes.

A Promising Plot That Falls Flat in One Fast Move
Credits: Prime Video

Wes, the protagonist in “One Fast Move“, comes across as frustratingly two-dimensional. Despite his terrible past, the film lacks insight into his inner life, making it difficult for the audience to empathize with him on a deeper level.

While Apa’s performance is competent, the script’s lack of emotional depth detracts from it. Wes’ journey, which should have been a riveting narrative of redemption and self-discovery, feels more like a set of expected beats than a nuanced examination of a young man’s struggle in this harsh world. 

The relationship between Wes and Dean, which should have served as the film’s emotional Centre, is similarly underdeveloped. While there are tensions and opportunities for reconciliation, they are never fully realized. 

Dane’s portrayal of Dean, a man hardened by his choices and regrets, effectively conveys the character’s weariness, but the script does not offer him much to work with.

The film attempts to build up to a poignant revelation from Dean, but the power of this moment is diminished because it is foreshadowed far in advance, leaving the audience with a sense of anticlimax.

Missed Potential in the Racing World

One of the film’s most significant wasted opportunities is its portrayal of road course racing. The sport, which demands extreme skill, discipline, and resilience, is reduced to a simple backdrop for the father-son drama.

Blatz might have exploited this aspect of the tale to add novelty and depth to the picture by showing the audience the hard work of racing and how it reflects Wes’ inner journey.

Instead, the film skips over these subtleties in favor of generic training montages and race sequences that make a little effect.

Missed Potential in the Racing World
Credits: Prime Video

“One Fast Move” eventually falls short and disappoints us. While the film tries to explore themes of redemption and human connection, it does it in a shallow and predictable manner.

Despite the cast’s attempts, the characters are underdeveloped and lack the richness required to make their hardships relatable to the audience.

Conclusion

“One Fast Move” fails to deliver on its promising premise, offering a narrative that feels more superficial than emotionally engaging. The film’s underdeveloped characters and reliance on clichés diminish its impact, leaving viewers with a story that lacks the depth and originality needed to stand out. 

Despite KJ Apa’s solid performance and a talented supporting cast, the movie’s exploration of redemption and father-son dynamics falls flat. For those seeking a compelling and heartfelt drama, “One Fast Move” may not be worth the watch, as it ultimately speeds past the potential for genuine connection.

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