The Contractor (2022)

A Gritty Action Thriller with a Human Core

The Contractor (2022) is an intense action thriller that explores the darker side of military life and the human cost of loyalty and survival. Directed by Tarik Saleh, the film features a solid lead performance from Chris Pine and offers a grounded, emotional take on a familiar genre.

Plot Summary

James Harper (Chris Pine), a decorated Special Forces sergeant, is involuntarily discharged from the military after a knee injury and financial troubles. Desperate to support his family, he joins a private paramilitary contractor organization led by a mysterious figure (played by Kiefer Sutherland). What begins as a covert mission in Europe soon spirals out of control, and Harper finds himself betrayed and hunted. Forced to go on the run, he must use all his training and instincts to survive—and uncover the truth behind the mission that turned him into a target.

Themes and Tone

The Contractor explores timely themes such as the exploitation of veterans, the privatization of warfare, and the psychological toll of betrayal. It avoids flashy, over-the-top action in favor of a more realistic, gritty tone. The film raises questions about loyalty, identity, and the cost of doing “the right thing” in a world driven by power and profit.

Performance

Chris Pine delivers one of his most grounded and emotionally resonant performances to date. As Harper, he balances toughness with vulnerability, portraying a man broken by a system he once trusted. Ben Foster, reuniting with Pine after Hell or High Water, adds weight as a fellow soldier and friend. Gillian Jacobs also brings nuance as Harper’s wife, struggling to hold their family together.

Direction and Style

Director Tarik Saleh infuses the film with a European thriller vibe—tight, suspenseful, and quietly intense. The cinematography is cold and muted, reflecting Harper’s isolation and internal conflict. Action scenes are well-crafted but never excessive, staying focused on realism and emotional stakes.

Reception

While The Contractor didn’t make a major splash at the box office, it was appreciated for its mature storytelling and character-driven approach to the action genre. Critics praised Chris Pine’s performance and the film’s thoughtful take on modern military issues, even if some felt the pacing was uneven.

Conclusion

The Contractor is a thoughtful and gripping thriller that offers more than just bullets and explosions. It’s a story about what happens to the soldiers after the war ends—when the uniforms are gone but the battles continue. Anchored by Chris Pine’s strong performance and a tense, realistic atmosphere, it’s a film that blends action with heart and moral complexity.