120 floors. 4 walls. 1 secret trapped inside.|Jul. 14, 2021|Australia|101 Min.
Genre: Mystery;Science;Fiction;Thriller
Description: “Rising Wolf,” a 2021 film, blends elements of a hostage thriller and sci-fi fantasy but struggles to deliver a coherent narrative. The story follows Aria Wolf, a young woman trapped in a Shanghai skyscraper elevator by a ruthless Russian antagonist. Despite its initial promise, the film becomes muddled with themes of time travel, psychic abilities, and environmental catastrophe, failing to build excitement or clarity. Charlotte Best delivers a strong performance as Aria, but the film’s disjointed mix of brutal violence and dreamlike sequences leaves viewers confused rather than captivated. Originally titled “Ascendant,” it underperformed at the Australian box office but is set for a U.S. release. The plot centers on Aria’s discovery of her extraordinary powers while enduring the torment of her father’s live-streamed torture by the villain, Yaroslav. Despite striking visuals, the film’s derivative approach and lack of narrative cohesion make it a forgettable addition to the genre.
Cast director: Antaine Furlong
Cast actor: Charlotte Best, Jonny Pasvolsky, Andrew Jack, Susan Prior, Karelina Clarke, Tahlia Sturzaker, Elsa Cocquerel, Lily Stewart, Alex Menglet, George Burgess
Original name: Ascendant