Memory (2022) ends with a violent showdown where Alex Lewis, despite his Alzheimer’s, confronts the villains and ensures justice is served.
“Memory” is an action thriller directed by Martin Campbell. Liam Neeson stars as Alex Lewis, a hitman with early-onset dementia. The film explores themes of memory, identity, and justice. Released in April 2022, it received mixed reviews.
Plot Overview
Alex Lewis, played by Liam Neeson, is a hitman struggling with Alzheimer’s disease. He wants to retire but gets pulled back in for a double hit in El Paso, Texas. He kills Ellis Van Camp and retrieves flash drives for a mysterious client. However, his condition complicates his mission.
The story takes a twist when Alex refuses to kill Beatriz, a young girl who is also a target. Instead, he decides to protect her. This decision sets off a chain of events that lead to a climactic confrontation.
Key Characters
Alex Lewis (Liam Neeson) : A hitman with Alzheimer’s.Vincent Serra (Guy Pearce) : An FBI agent investigating the murders.Linda Amistead (Taj Atwal) : A special agent who bonds with Detective Hugo Marquez.Hugo Marquez (Harold Torres) : A detective working with Linda.Davana Sealman (Monica Bellucci) : A high-status individual involved in the crimes.
The Climactic Confrontation
The climax revolves around Alex’s quest for justice. His Alzheimer’s symptoms make this journey more challenging. Alex and Agent Vincent Serra become unlikely allies. They work together to uncover the truth behind the murders and the corruption protecting the perpetrators.
In the final act, Alex’s condition worsens. Despite this, he confronts the villains in a violent showdown. One of the main antagonists meets a brutal end. This scene provides a final thrill but also highlights the film’s focus on action over character development.
Delivering Justice
Detective Hugo Marquez and Special Agent Linda Amistead play crucial roles. Their methods are Machiavellian, and they navigate obstacles posed by powerful individuals. Together, they plot to avenge Beatriz, ensuring justice is served despite the challenges.
Themes and Analysis
Memory and Identity
Memory and identity are central themes. Alex’s struggle with Alzheimer’s symbolizes the loss of self. As his memories fade, so does his sense of identity. His quest for justice becomes both a personal and professional battle. The film explores how memory shapes actions and decisions, and how its loss can lead to a crisis of identity.
Corruption and Justice
The film delves into corruption and the quest for justice. It highlights systemic corruption that protects the wealthy and powerful. Alex and Agent Serra’s partnership symbolizes the fight against this corruption. They work together to bring the perpetrators to justice. The film suggests that justice often requires unconventional methods.
Action vs. Character Development
Critics note that “Memory” emphasizes action sequences, sometimes at the expense of character development. While the film features dramatic moments, these are often overshadowed by action scenes. This focus on action can detract from the emotional depth of the characters, particularly Alex Lewis.
Critical Reception
“Memory” received mixed to negative reviews. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a 29% approval rating. Metacritic assigned it a score of 41 out of 100. Despite the criticism, some reviewers acknowledged the film’s ambition and powerful performances.
Richard Roeper of the Chicago Sun-Times praised Martin Campbell’s direction, giving the film three out of four stars. However, other critics were less favorable, noting that the action sequences often overshadowed the dramatic elements.
Conclusion
“Memory” combines action and thriller elements with a poignant exploration of memory and identity. While the emphasis on action may detract from character development, it offers a compelling narrative about a hitman grappling with Alzheimer’s and his quest for justice. The ending, marked by a violent showdown and the delivery of justice, underscores themes of corruption and the complicatedities of seeking justice. Despite mixed reviews, “Memory” remains a noteworthy entry in Liam Neeson’s filmography and a testament to Martin Campbell’s directorial prowess.
References
