The G (Canada, 2024)
The sub-genre of “You Picked the Wrong Guy” has seen some fascinating expansions in 2024, offering wildly creative variations. We’ve had Jason Statham avenging murdered bees in The Beekeeper, and now we get The G, one of two films this year (the other being Thelma) centering on elderly ladies taking a stand. Personally, the “elderly lady variation” has become my favorite spin on this trope.
The G follows Ann (Dale Dickey), a 72-year-old woman whose modest life revolves around caring for her ailing husband. Things take a sinister turn when a mysterious man named Rivera forcibly takes them under his “care,” dragging them into a chilling scheme to exploit elderly individuals for financial gain. But Ann is far from an ordinary grandmother, revealing a gritty determination and a shadowy past as she fights back. The story deftly balances suspense, character development, and mystery, keeping the audience hooked as secrets unravel and the stakes escalate.
Dale Dickey is what truly sets The G apart. Known for scene-stealing turns in Breaking Bad, Iron Man 3, and recently in Fallout, Dickey fully claims the spotlight here. Her weathered yet expressive face conveys Ann’s story before she even speaks, and she layers the character with humor, menace, and emotional vulnerability. Ann’s sharp, foul-mouthed personality gives the film its edge, but her bond with Emma (Romane Denis) provides its heart. Denis delivers a strong performance as Emma, and their dynamic feels both authentic and emotionally resonant.
Unlike many action-driven films where relationships are implied (e.g., John Wick and his dog or The Equalizer and Chloe Grace Moretz), The G takes the time to explore Ann and Emma’s bond, making it all the more rewarding.
The G isn’t a full-on action movie. Ann doesn’t go on a killing spree—though some action fans might wish she did. Instead, the film leans into thriller territory, with Karl R. Hearne’s direction ensuring the plot unfolds organically, dropping clues and twists at just the right pace. The film’s opening—a haunting and visually unsettling moment—sets the tone brilliantly, while the asylum setting introduces an eerie, almost supernatural atmosphere.
While the cinematography is serviceable rather than spectacular, Philippe Brault’s score stands out. Its ethereal, otherworldly vocals add layers of tension and uniqueness. The second act slows down with a romantic subplot that feels slightly indulgent, but Hearne maintains enough intrigue to keep the audience engaged. A touch more action in the final act might have heightened the excitement, but the payoff remains satisfying.
Ultimately, The G excels in what it sets out to do: deliver a character-driven thriller with a compelling lead, emotional depth, and just enough mystery to keep viewers hooked. Dale Dickey’s incredible performance anchors the film, ensuring it’s a satisfying and memorable watch.