Shaina West, a British martial artist and stunt performer known for her roles in “Black Widow” and “The Woman King,” steps into the spotlight with her starring role in the new action film “Jade.” This pulpy, retro flick sees West embodying the title character, an English ex-pat stranded in a nondescript American town. Jade is still grappling with the loss of her brother, whose death is explained through a lengthy animated backstory before the film’s opening credits.
Once the exposition is out of the way, director James Bamford, a seasoned stunt coordinator, dives headfirst into the action. The film is packed with high-octane sequences of kicking, hand-chopping, stabbing, and shooting. Jade is roped into hiding a mysterious hard drive for a soon-to-be-murdered friend from her gang days. She is captured but quickly escapes, dispatching her captors with ease. These henchmen work for the film’s main antagonist, Tork, played by Mickey Rourke, who delivers a laconic performance.
West’s portrayal of Jade is notable not just for her martial arts prowess but also for her striking appearance. Her voluminous natural hair is almost a character in itself, reminiscent of the iconic black heroines of the 1970s like Pam Grier’s Foxy Brown and Tamara Dobson’s Cleopatra Jones. West’s charisma and knack for quips make her a compelling lead, even if the script doesn’t fully challenge her acting abilities. She effortlessly outshines the rest of the cast, which is primarily composed of former stunt performers seizing the opportunity to deliver a few lines.
One standout supporting performance comes from Steven Michael Quezada, known for his role as Gomez in “Breaking Bad.” Although his character doesn’t last long, Quezada’s comic timing adds a touch of humor to the film. His presence is a brief but enjoyable diversion in a movie that is otherwise focused on relentless action.
“Jade” is a film that revels in its retro aesthetic and action-packed sequences. West’s performance, combined with her striking appearance, makes her a modern-day Foxy Brown. The film’s plot may be straightforward, but it’s the high-energy action and West’s screen presence that keep viewers engaged.
