Misdirection doesn’t reinvent the thriller genre, but it knows exactly what kind of movie it wants to be. Anchored by the intense screen presence of Olga Kurylenko and Frank Grillo, the film delivers a compact psychological battle that relies more on performances and tension than flashy twists.
While the story follows a well-worn path, Misdirection manages to stay engaging thanks to its focused pacing, grounded action, and a constant sense of distrust between its two leads.
A Simple Premise Built on Psychological Tension
At its core, Misdirection is about manipulation, control, and survival. The film places its characters in a high-stakes situation where information is more dangerous than weapons. Instead of large-scale set pieces, the tension comes from conversations, shifting power dynamics, and the question of who is really in control.
The plot unfolds in a confined setting, which works in the movie’s favor. By limiting the scope, the film keeps the audience locked into the mental chess match playing out on screen. Even when the story becomes predictable, the execution remains tight enough to hold attention.
Olga Kurylenko Brings Emotional Weight
Olga Kurylenko delivers a restrained but effective performance. Her character is written as guarded and emotionally scarred, and Kurylenko leans into subtle expressions rather than overacting. She carries much of the film’s emotional credibility, making even familiar story beats feel grounded.
Her performance works best in quieter moments, where silence says more than dialogue. These scenes give the film a psychological edge that elevates it above being a purely generic thriller.
Frank Grillo Plays to His Strengths
Frank Grillo does what he does best: portraying a physically imposing but morally ambiguous figure. His character thrives on intimidation, yet Grillo adds just enough unpredictability to keep viewers guessing about his true intentions.
While the role doesn’t stretch his range, his screen presence adds tension to every scene he’s in. The chemistry between Grillo and Kurylenko is convincing, turning their interactions into the film’s main driving force.
Direction and Pacing Keep Things Moving
The direction keeps the film lean and efficient. There’s little wasted time, and the story moves at a steady pace without dragging. Action scenes are brief but purposeful, serving the narrative instead of distracting from it.
However, the film plays things a bit too safe. Viewers familiar with psychological thrillers may anticipate most of the twists long before they happen. Misdirection rarely surprises, but it remains watchable due to its consistent tone and focused storytelling.
A Thriller That Knows Its Limits
Misdirection doesn’t aim to be genre-defining, and that’s both its strength and weakness. It’s a film that understands its limitations and works comfortably within them. Instead of chasing shock value, it relies on atmosphere, performances, and controlled tension.
For audiences looking for a fast-paced, easy-to-follow thriller with solid acting, this movie delivers. Those expecting bold twists or a fresh take on the genre may find it too familiar.
Misdirection is a competent, well-acted thriller that succeeds more through execution than originality. Olga Kurylenko and Frank Grillo elevate a standard script into an engaging battle of wits, even if the story never fully breaks new ground.
It may not linger long after the credits roll, but for fans of contained psychological thrillers, Misdirection is a decent and effective watch. Stay tuned with Filmbuzzr.
Misdirection opens in select theaters on February 10th, 2026.