Angel Has Fallen

Angel Has Fallen poster

Angel Has Fallen is a 2019 American action film directed by Ric Roman Waugh. It is the third installment in the Fallen film series, following Olympus Has Fallen (2013) and London Has Fallen (2016). The movie stars Gerard Butler as the protagonist, Mike Banning, a Secret Service Agent who is framed for an attack on the President of the United States, played by Morgan Freeman. The film explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and redemption as Banning works to clear his name and uncover the true threat to the president.

Plot

The film begins with Mike Banning, who is suffering from the physical and mental scars of his years of service, being framed for a drone attack on President Allan Trumbull during a fishing trip. With the president in a coma and Banning the prime suspect, he goes on the run to evade his own agency and the FBI. Banning seeks to uncover the real perpetrators behind the attack while protecting the president from further threats. His journey leads him to unexpected allies, including his estranged father, played by Nick Nolte, who lives off the grid. Together, they must confront a private military company led by a former friend of Banning, revealing a deep-seated conspiracy within the government.

Cast

• Gerard Butler as Mike Banning
• Morgan Freeman as President Allan Trumbull
• Danny Huston as Wade Jennings, Banning's friend and the film's antagonist
• Nick Nolte as Clay Banning, Mike's estranged father
• Piper Perabo as Leah Banning, Mike's wife
• Jada Pinkett Smith as FBI Agent Helen Thompson
• Lance Reddick as Secret Service Director David Gentry

Production

Angel Has Fallen was announced shortly after the release of London Has Fallen, with Gerard Butler returning to star and produce. The film saw a change in director with Ric Roman Waugh taking over the helm. Filming took place in various locations, including Bulgaria and the United Kingdom, with a focus on practical effects and intense action sequences. The production faced challenges, including adapting to the physical demands of the action scenes and ensuring a coherent and engaging narrative amidst the high-octane sequences.

Reception

Upon its release, Angel Has Fallen received mixed reviews from critics, who praised Butler's performance and the action sequences but criticized the plot for its predictability and lack of originality. Despite this, the film was a commercial success, grossing over $147 million worldwide against a budget of approximately $40 million. It demonstrated the enduring appeal of the Fallen series and its protagonist, Mike Banning.

Sequel

Following the success of Angel Has Fallen, discussions regarding a fourth installment in the Fallen series have surfaced, indicating the potential continuation of Mike Banning's adventures.