The Old Guard stars Charlize Theron as the head of a quartet of immortals who receive a call for help regarding a group of women in jeopardy. Unfortunately, their efforts fail because it’s all a set up.  This situation causes Andy (Theron) to reflect more deeply about why they should continue with their work when the world is such a mess. But she definitely wants to find out who is behind this dirty deed and why they are targeting her and her crew.

Based on a graphic novel series and directed by Gina Prince-BytheWord from a screenplay by co-writer Greg Rucka, this action fantasy includes some fine performances as well as a new way to present superheroes. Theron, practically unrecognizable here, does an excellent job projecting Andy’s inner conflict and how that impacts her relationship with a new immortal (KiKi Layne), who is trying to understand what’s happening.

But, never fear, fans. The movie includes lots of violence and action. In fact, sometimes a bit too much. One particular sequence seems to go on and on -- to the point you might want to shout “Enough already!” 

Fortunately, both Theron and Layne get many chances to show they’re just as good as the guys in these action shots. And that’s saying a lot because Matthias Schoenaerts, Luca Marinelli, and Marvan Kenzari -- as the male Old Guard members – are great to watch in action as the film unfolds.

Chiwetel Ejiofor and Harry Melling add proper villainy to the story, but one of them doesn’t realize what he’s involved in. No, I won’t tell you which one.        

Immortals have their problems too.

Like tiring of good things they do.

And losing loves while they go on.

For centuries they’re never gone.

Four of this group seem quite a team,

but get involved in someone’s scheme.

That someone wants their DNA.

He’ll profit by it come what may.

“The Old Guard” meets a member new

and try bringing her into crew.

Their boss Andy, though very tired

helps her believe and be inspired.

Charlize Theron is boss Andy.

At ways of warfare, she’s handy.

Saving good people is her game.

A sequel would not be a shame.

***

Immortals are never alien to one another --- Homer

The time is out of joint. O cursed sprite that ever I was born to put it right. --- William Shakespeare

(Released by Netflix and rated “R” by MPAA.)