The movie begins with Anna living in poverty in Russia, where she works as a waitress. However, she is approached by a KGB agent, Alex Tchenkov (Evans), who offers her a job as a model in Paris. Little does Anna know that this was a ploy to lure her into the world of espionage, where she would work as an assassin for the Russian government.
Anna quickly proves to be a skilled assassin, often dispatching her targets efficiently and without remorse. However, life in the world of espionage is not easy, and Anna is constantly put under pressure to perform her duties. In addition, she comes to the attention of Lenny Miller (Murphy), a CIA agent who is keen on recruiting her to work for the American government.
As Anna’s missions become more complex and dangerous, she begins to question her loyalty to the Russian government. She knows that if she refuses to do their bidding, she risks being killed. However, she also realizes that she wants to live a normal life, free from the constant danger and betrayal that she faces every day.
Throughout the movie, Anna is a strong, resilient character who does not let anyone push her around. She does what is necessary to stay alive, even if it means betraying those who are closest to her. However, she also has a softer side, and the audience is privy to her personal life, where she often mingles with her friends, such as Maude (Mirren), a former KGB agent. This balance of toughness and vulnerability makes Anna a relatable and likable protagonist.
As an action thriller, Anna delivers in spades, with well-choreographed fight scenes and exciting car chases. However, it is not all style over substance, and the movie has an engaging storyline with well-developed characters. The film’s setting, which takes place mainly in Paris, adds to the overall appeal, with its beautiful architecture and stunning vistas.
Anna received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics calling it a derivative action movie that did not add much to the genre. However, others praised the film’s fast-paced action scenes, with many comparing it to Luc Besson’s earlier works, such as La Femme Nikita and Lucy.
In conclusion, Anna is a solid action thriller that is worth watching if you are a fan of the genre. Sasha Luss delivers a standout performance as the enigmatic assassin, and the supporting cast adds depth to the film. While it may not be groundbreaking, it is an enjoyable film that will keep you entertained from start to finish.