June 7, 2025

Panama (2022)
🌍 In the shadows of power, survival is a dangerous game.

Panama (2022) is a gritty, intense political thriller that pulls no punches. Starring Cole Hauser as James Becker, a seasoned mercenary hired to navigate the treacherous political landscape of Panama during the early ’90s, this film delivers high-stakes action and taut, suspenseful drama. Directed by Mark Neveldine, Panama takes viewers deep into the heart of a nation on the brink of political upheaval, where corruption, violence, and betrayal lie around every corner.

The film begins with Becker being sent on a covert mission to assist in securing a major arms deal between factions tied to the U.S. government and local Panamanian powerbrokers. But what starts as a straightforward operation soon spirals into a deadly game of cat and mouse, as Becker is pulled into a world of double-crosses, shady alliances, and a conspiracy that could change the course of history.

Hauser delivers a standout performance as Becker, playing the role with a hardened edge and a quiet but intense gravitas. He’s the perfect fit for a character who has lived through the worst of conflicts and learned to trust no one. As the mission falls apart, Becker must rely on his wits, combat skills, and survival instincts to stay one step ahead of the numerous enemies closing in on him.

What makes Panama stand out is its ability to balance tense action with moments of deep emotional introspection. Becker is a man haunted by his past, and as the stakes rise, we see glimpses of his internal struggle. The mission becomes not just about completing an objective but about confronting the choices he’s made throughout his violent career.

The film’s supporting cast is equally strong, with Mel Gibson playing a charismatic and morally ambiguous arms dealer, Tommy Flanagan as Becker’s enigmatic partner, and Kate Katzman as a Panamanian journalist who holds vital information that could change the tide of the entire operation. Their performances add layers of complexity to the story, making it more than just a typical action thriller.

The action scenes are sharp and effective—well-paced, visceral, and expertly choreographed. From high-speed car chases through the narrow streets of Panama City to brutal firefights in the jungles, Panama keeps you on the edge of your seat. But it’s the moments of quiet tension between the gunfire that truly build the film’s intensity, as Becker weighs his next move in a world where every ally could be a potential enemy.

Final Verdict:
Panama (2022) is a strong addition to the political thriller genre, mixing action, suspense, and a morally complex protagonist into a film that’s both exciting and thought-provoking. With stellar performances from Hauser and Gibson, and a tense, layered script, Panama is an action-packed ride that also explores the personal cost of violence, betrayal, and survival.