By Peter Harris
Netflix aficionados can’t get enough of a ‘hot mess’ sci-fi thriller that’s been described as a concoction of The Matrix, Avengers, and The Bourne saga. As it stands, Infinite has secured a spot within the top ten movies for UK viewers on Netflix, claiming the ninth position in the platform’s film charts. Initially released in 2021 on various streaming platforms after its cinematic debut was postponed due to the Covid pandemic, Infinite first graced Prime Video before finding its new digital abode on Netflix. Adapted from D. Eric Maikranz’s novel The Reincarnationist Papers, the movie was directed by Antoine Fuqua, celebrated for directing action-packed favourites like Training Day and The Equalizer, which both featured Denzel Washington. Starring Mark Wahlberg as Evan, a man gifted with memories of his past lives and holding the whereabouts of an apocalyptic device, he finds himself pursued by factions wanting the device for their own objectives, reports Surrey Live . Yet, despite Fuqua’s notable filmography, Infinite didn’t manage to charm critics, scraping together a paltry 17% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. A viewer expressed their grievances online, stating: “This movie is a mix of The Bourne Identity, The Matrix, Avengers Infinity War rolled into one and it just one big hot mess.” They continued: “It doesn’t work at all! It’s a damn shame too because you would think a movie directed by the same person who directed Training Day and The Equalizer (both great movies) would be good but you’d be wrong.” Another cheekily claimed it’s “the ‘If Michael Bay directed a Christopher Nolan film’ mashup we were all expecting.” Yet, despite the mixed reviews, the film’s current success on Netflix indicates it has found its audience. One advocate for the film remarked: “I really enjoyed this film. Simply for the odd story. The wonderful cheesiness that kept it feeling a bridge above a B-rated nature. I felt it was an A-.” Someone else chimed in: “I’m glad I didn’t listen to the reviews! This is a solid movie. I think we are all just spoiled. This is original, with great settings and special effects. Fun weapons. Excellent premise. It’s not like any movie I’ve seen. If you like Kingsman movies, this should be up your alley. Not as funny, a bit silly in places, lots of action.” Another person shared their enthusiasm, saying: “Awesome, suspenseful and edge of the seat entertainment. Has everything it needed to make it an instant classic. And leaves you wanting to see more. Great cast and a must see.” Infinite is streaming on Netflix.