Havoc, directed by Gareth Evans, brings a hard-hitting, blood-soaked action spectacle to Netflix. Starring the ever-intense Tom Hardy as Patrick Walker, the film plunges viewers into a brutal world of crime, corruption, and survival, showcasing Evans’ signature flair for relentless, high-octane sequences.

Plot Overview: A Bare-Bones but Gripping Story

In Havoc, Hardy plays Walker, a troubled cop who gets dragged into a violent underworld after a drug deal turns deadly. Tasked with protecting a politician’s son and his girlfriend, Walker must survive a bloody night of betrayals and battles. While the plot is minimalistic, the movie makes up for it with sheer kinetic energy and unrelenting action.

Strengths: Action, Cinematography, and Hardy’s Commanding Performance

• Relentless Action: Every fight scene is brutal, claustrophobic, and jaw-droppingly choreographed, keeping viewers at the edge of their seats.
• Stunning Cinematography: Matt Flannery crafts visually dynamic sequences, especially the unforgettable nightclub massacre scene, a masterclass in neon-drenched chaos.
• Tom Hardy’s Star Power: Hardy’s portrayal of a haunted but determined cop adds emotional gravity, elevating a thin narrative with sheer screen presence.

Weaknesses: Underdeveloped Characters and World-Building

Despite its breathtaking action, Havoc falters in storytelling. Walker’s backstory remains vague, and supporting characters like Ellie feel underused. The film misses opportunities to deepen its emotional stakes, making the story feel more like a backdrop for relentless violence rather than a fully fleshed-out narrative.

Cinematographic Mastery: Turning Chaos into Art

One of Havoc’s crowning achievements lies in its cinematography. Flannery’s work transforms tight spaces into kinetic battle zones without losing clarity. Notably, the neon-lit nightclub brawl stands out as one of the best-shot action scenes of the decade, showcasing the precision and creativity synonymous with Gareth Evans’ filmmaking style.

Tom Hardy’s Stellar Turn: A One-Man Powerhouse

Though the plot is thin, Hardy’s magnetic performance holds everything together. Balancing brute force with subtle vulnerability, he creates a protagonist that feels lived-in and believable. Hardy channels a vibe reminiscent of John Wick but brings his own rugged edge to Patrick Walker’s character, making it one of his standout performances in recent years.

Final Verdict: Should You Stream Havoc?

Yes — if you love action movies that prioritize visceral thrills over complex storytelling. Havoc is a relentless, stylish, and brutally entertaining watch, even if it leaves you wanting more depth. Thanks to Gareth Evans’ masterful direction and Tom Hardy’s towering performance, Havoc cements itself as one of Netflix’s most thrilling action films of 2025.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

Have you watched Havoc yet? Drop your thoughts and your favorite fight scene in the comments below!