Jessica Chastain commands the screen as a black ops assassin in the 2020 action thriller. Her character, a recovering addict, specializes in high-profile hits but operates with a dangerous quirk. She questions her targets before pulling the trigger, a habit that puts her entire world at risk.
The film’s release mirrored its tense plot. It debuted in the United States during the pandemic, bypassing traditional theaters. Vertical Entertainment launched it through DirecTV Cinema before a limited theatrical run.
This R-rated movie runs a tight 96 minutes. It landed with a divided response. Critics praised Chastain’s powerful performance but noted a struggle between gritty action and personal drama. The result is a polarizing entry in the genre.
The Rise of Ava in the Spotlight
Jessica Chastain’s commitment to complex female characters found another expression through her work on this physical role. She served as both star and producer through Freckle Films, her production company.
This dual responsibility meant she carried the project’s creative vision from start to finish. Her involvement shaped every aspect of the film’s development.
Emergence of a Talent in the Entertainment World
The role demanded intense physical preparation and fight choreography. Chastain built on her reputation for physically demanding performances.
She transformed for the part, adding another action-heavy performance to her growing repertoire. The work came at a significant time in her professional life.
Chastain was vocal about the MeToo movement during production. This context added layers to her public role as both artist and advocate.
International Recognition and Media Buzz
Critics consistently highlighted Chastain’s performance as the film’s strongest element. The Hollywood Reporter praised her “movie-star charisma” that anchored the project.
Even when the screenplay struggled, her presence commanded attention. This role reinforced her reputation for taking professional risks.
By the time Ava released, Chastain had established herself as an actress who chooses challenging material. The film marked another chapter in her career-long exploration of powerful women.
Ava: A Deep Dive into Production & Cast
Principal photography for the project commenced in Massachusetts in late 2018, but not before a major controversy reshaped its direction. The production faced immediate scrutiny.
This was due to original director Matthew Newton. Public backlash over his history of assault allegations forced him to step down.
All-Star Ensemble – From Jessica Chastain to Colin Farrell
The film’s cast boasted significant talent. Jessica Chastain led as the titular operative.
She was supported by a powerful group. John Malkovich played her handler, Duke, while Colin Farrell brought a cold menace as the antagonist, Simon.
Geena Davis appeared as Ava’s mother. Joan Chen and Diana Silvers completed the notable ensemble.
| Actor | Role | Character Description |
|---|---|---|
| Jessica Chastain | Ava Faulkner | Black ops assassin questioning her targets |
| John Malkovich | Duke | Handler and father-figure mentor |
| Colin Farrell | Simon | Cold-blooded superior who sees Ava as a liability |
| Geena Davis | Bobbi | Ava’s estranged mother |
Director Tate Taylor and Production Challenges
Tate Taylor replaced Newton just weeks before filming. He is known for directing “The Help.”
Despite the change, Matthew Newton remained the writer. Critics later pointed to the screenplay as a weak point.
Filming occurred across Boston, Gloucester, and Weston. Locations included Worcester Regional Airport and Boston Common.
Behind the Scenes Controversies and Choices
Jessica Chastain, a vocal MeToo advocate, faced accusations of hypocrisy. This was for her initial involvement with Newton.
The controversy threatened to overshadow the entire film. Tate Taylor’s hiring helped stabilize the production.
His direction ultimately received mixed reviews. Some praised the action, while others felt the dramatic scenes suffered.
Exploring the Plot, Action, and Critical Reception
Box office performance told two different stories for this action film. The theatrical run faced pandemic challenges, earning just $3.3 million worldwide. Yet the movie found unexpected success on streaming platforms.
Intriguing Storylines and Set Pieces
The plot follows an elite assassin whose career goes dangerously wrong after a botched operation. A mission in Saudi Arabia turns deadly due to faulty intelligence. This triggers a kill order from her own organization.
Meanwhile, the story balances spy thrills with family drama. The protagonist returns home to confront her sister and ex-fiancé. Critics noted this created tonal inconsistency throughout the film.
Action sequences showcase brutal hand-to-hand combat. The climactic fight under Boston’s Zakim Bridge delivers intense physicality. Jessica Chastain performed much of her own stunt work.
Box Office Performance and Critical Reviews
The film’s opening weekend generated modest returns internationally. In Hungary, it earned $31,820 from 59 theaters. Domestic theatrical release was limited due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Streaming platforms provided redemption. The movie topped rental charts on Apple TV and Google Play. Netflix viewers made it the most-streamed film during its debut weekend.
Critical reception proved harsh overall. Rotten Tomatoes reported an 18% approval rating. Reviewers praised the cast’s commitment but criticized the clichéd script.
Parting Insights on Ava and Her Legacy
Jessica Chastain’s performance as a conflicted assassin represents both a professional risk and a learning experience. The film serves as a reminder that even A-list talent cannot salvage fundamental script issues.
In the United States, the project’s legacy connects more to its streaming success than theatrical impact. It found its true audience on digital platforms after a limited box office run.
The thriller’s ending teased a sequel that never materialized. This reflects the challenging reception and modest returns.
For Jessica Chastain, this role stands as a rare departure in an otherwise curated career. Her commitment to female-driven action projects remains noteworthy despite the outcome.
The film’s life demonstrates how digital distribution can rescue projects that might otherwise disappear. It sparked important conversations about separating art from artist in modern Hollywood.
