Alan Ritchson stars in Motor City, a new action film now available on AMC+ that eschews dialogue in favor of a visceral, revenge-fueled narrative. Directed by Potsy Ponciroli, the film adopts a style reminiscent of classic pulp revenge stories, set against the gritty backdrop of 1970s Detroit and driven by a carefully curated soundtrack.
The plot, as described by Stream It Or Skip It, centers on a revenge-within-a-revenge structure. One man seeks retribution for his girl being stolen, only for the tables to turn when she is reclaimed. The narrative features Ritchson as the "Put-Upon Man," whose journey unfolds with minimal spoken words. The supporting cast includes Shailene Woodley as "the Girl" and Ben Foster as "the Sleazemeister General." The film also features "Good Cop" (Ben McKenzie) and "Bad Cop" (Pablo Schreiber) archetypes, with a non-speaking narrator whose song choices shape the story.
The film's aesthetic draws heavily from 1970s cinema, aiming for a Tarantino-esque feel through its title treatment and pacing, though it deviates with its near-complete lack of dialogue. The soundtrack, featuring artists like David Bowie, Fleetwood Mac, and Bill Withers, serves a narrative function, providing thematic depth to the broad strokes of the plot. The story sees Ritchson’s character, a former Army Ranger, framed by the "Bad Cop" who is on the payroll of the "Sleazemeister General," a drug lord seeking revenge after Ritchson's character ends up with the "Girl." The "Good Cop" investigates the suspicious actions of the "Bad Cop."
Stream It Or Skip It noted that the film leans heavily into its stylistic choices, blending "Wick-core aesthetics" with a 1970s Detroit feel. While the film's focus on style over emotional depth is acknowledged, it is described as an enjoyable and clever riff on genre tropes. The review highlights Ben Foster's wordless emoting as a standout performance.
Despite its stylistic ambitions, Motor City has been noted for some narrative conveniences and a less-than-authentic depiction of its Detroit setting, having reportedly been filmed elsewhere. The soundtrack, while central, notably omits key Detroit musical artists like The Stooges and Motown. Nevertheless, the film's attempt to deliver a familiar revenge story through a distinct visual and auditory approach is considered admirable. The action sequences, described as "OTT violence via stylegasm," are a key element, with the film prioritizing visual storytelling and sensory engagement in the absence of dialogue.
Ultimately, Motor City is recommended for viewing, described as "fun enough" by Stream It Or Skip It, who concluded with a "STREAM IT" call.