The Baker

This action/thriller may feel familiar with elements borrowed from various sources, but its likable cast keeps things engaging with their charm and charisma. The Baker cleverly combines bits from John Wick, Aliens, and The Professional, placing the right elements in the right places to provide an enjoyable experience, even if it doesn't introduce anything groundbreaking. Perlman's portrayal as a fighter is believable, showcasing his human side with vulnerability after a fight, and his bonding with young Emma Ho's character, Delphi, is heartwarming. Keitel's portrayal of the crime lord exudes calm menace, while Koteas' Vic becomes a tragic figure. The film leaves room for a possible sequel, and with intriguing characters, that prospect seems promising.

The Baker

We had a blistering start to the movie, what a beginning. Ron Perlman just oozed menace and Joel David Moore (Norm from Avatar) turned out a class act, albeit brief.

As a movie this was a page turner, it was script light and heavy on the action. In short it was a great thriller and yes, we had a few scenes that stretched credulity, but overall it was gripping.

I am not sure why some "critics" on here can't see the simple joy in this story about a grandfather protecting his family that was very well done, not to mention the great direction and great music.

I'm giving this a firm 6 outta 10 for a strong entertaining movie.

I'm a fan of Ron Pearlman. I've seen him in so many movies and love him in Sons of Anarchy. I'm glad to see him get a leading movie role, and his performance does not disappoint. The more surprising development is child actress Emma Ho somehow matching his performance, especially when much of this movie rides on her shoulders.

The Baker is mostly well-made and does a good job investing you in the characters. They add in little details, moments, and actions that may seem inconsequential to the story but make both lead characters so endearing. And it doesn't feel randomly inserted, but rather a natural part of the story and characters.

The fight scenes are the only thing holding this back from crossing the threshold between good and great; from being something I rewatch. And I don't think it's the fault of the director. I don't know how to say this without sounding mean, but Ron Pearlman is too old to perform convincing fight scenes. It's the Liam Neeson effect.

The reason I don't think it's the directors fault is a fight scene early on that doesn't involve Pearlman. It's a good scene and got me excited. When Pearlman has a fight scene, there are five cuts per second (no exaggeration) to mask the unconvincing choreography. It's hard to watch, metaphorically and literally.

In another fight scene involving Pearlman, there are no cuts for about two minutes. But the scene is intentionally shadowy and never once shows Pearlman's face. It's clearly a stunt double the entire time. And because it's so dark, it's difficult to see the fight itself. It could have been a cool one-take scene if they didn't have to film it in the dark.

I still had a good time with this movie but I doubt I'd watch it again. I think most people will enjoy it, at least mildly. It's definitely better than most streaming movie garbage. (1 viewing, opening Thursday 7/27/2023)

When the movie started, I was thinking to myself that it kind of felt familiar. It was almost like somebody had binged watched some early Steven Seagal movies like Nico (1988) and Hard to Kill - Ein Cop schlägt zurück (1990), and then thought up this story. Wasn't bad, just a little slow. The action wasn't that bad, Ron Perlman aka The Baker, did a reasonable job portraying his character. Old school baddie, Harvey Keitel was his usual self and matched his character too. Vic (Elias Koteas) played the tortured number two. If you are expecting a movie similar to 96 Hours (2008) or the fast action of Liam Neeson, you won't find it here.

Overall, a solid above average movie. I would recommend at least one watch.

I don't even understand how this movie can rank below a minimum of 8 in review ratings. Ron Perlman is way underrated as the real man's man of what a strong, silent, no nonsense real hero should be. Not withstanding in this movie, a dream fantasy grandfather or father any kid would be proud to a part of that bloodline. The plot may seem straight forward predictable but it's the flow of a good movie and it's great talent that elevates this from mediocre. RP character doesn't need lots of stunt work to get the message across or work done. Guess it's his many years as a veteran artiste professional that commands an implied presence that requires no words. Like the bread that he bakes, he more than rose to the crunch. 🍞👍🙏👌😋👏🎊💐