Bastille Day

Idris Elba has become an increasingly popular actor, with his fierce, imposing yet cool, charismatic screen persona that also brings welcome diversity to major films. His new film Bastille Day states his claim as a strong leading man.

This action thriller deals with a CIA field agent (Idris Elba) who must make an unlikely alliance with an American pickpocket (Richard Madden) in order to stop a terrorist plot on the eve of France's Bastille Day.

There have been fewer good action films in recent years, due to changing tastes, and a lack of new ideas and compelling stories/characters. Luckily this is one of the better ones. Though hardly original, it has taut action sequences and a dash of social commentary in a tight no-nonsense runtime. In fact, it feels old school (a little bit Die Hard), particularly with the fun mismatched paring, banter and funny one-liners. It's a shame that the villains prove underwhelming/forgetful.

Elba shows off his layered talents, being a cool anti-hero, charming spy and a physical badarse who will kick your arse, it's no wonder many wanted him to be James Bond. Game Of Thrones star Madden is also good, making his character less one-dimensional with his own charm and emotive expression.

With the help of some magnetic leads, Bastille Day is better than most recent action trash.