Not 'Mission Impossible', but It Hits the Mark: Amazon’s Action Thriller with a Bond Vibe

Ilya Naishuller’s new film with Idris Elba and John Cena is a wild mix of fights and talks.
The film Heads of State premiered on Amazon Prime Video and immediately reminded viewers why they love light action movies with a great cast. There’s no deep politics here, but there are spy tricks, chemistry between the heroes, and scenes that seem cut from a James Bond parody.
Heads of State: Plot
The US President (John Cena) and the UK Prime Minister (Idris Elba) are complete opposites. One is a joker, the other is constantly tense. But both are former tough guys: one acted in action movies, the other served in special forces.
When an assassination attempt is made on them, a peaceful NATO summit turns into an arcade-style action: chases, shootouts, even parachute jumps. And in the meantime, they have to save the world while forgetting their differences.
Chemistry Like in the Good Old "Bad Boys"
The formula of "an unlikely pair saving the planet" works here too. The heroes bicker, argue, and fight — all amid explosions and witty comebacks.
The best scenes aren’t the action ones, but the dialogues: like the argument inside the airplane cockpit that continues even during a parachute jump. Elba’s stone face and Cena’s smirk create a smooth duo where charisma matters more than the script.
Priyanka Chopra Jonas Shines as a Sharp MI6 Agent
Priyanka Chopra Jonas plays an MI6 agent, adding necessary seriousness to the film. Her character not only rescues the men from trouble but also keeps the plot on track.
Not Great Cinema, But Worth Watching in Its Genre
The director of Hardcore Henry and Nobody knows how to shoot thrills. Yes, it’s predictable, but lively. The fight scenes are top-notch, the music hooks you, and the main villain, though weak, lets the heroes shine. This is one of those films that honestly does what it promises—entertains.