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“Silent Night”: John Woo’s action film premieres on Lionsgate Play

Posted on by angelo

Acclaimed action director John Woo returns with “Silent Night,” a gritty revenge story now available to stream on Lionsgate Play.

Known for his iconic “ball ballet” style, Woo delivers a captivating narrative without a single word spoken, challenging conventional storytelling with a unique blend of visual and aural artistry.

“Silent Night” tells a tragic story that takes place on Christmas Eve. Brian Godlock, played by Joel Kinnaman, is a father whose life is shattered when his young son is accidentally killed by a stray bullet during a gang shootout. Consumed by grief and rage, Brian tracks down some of the gang members responsible. In a brutal confrontation with the gang leader, Playa, played by Harold Torres, Brian is seriously injured and loses the ability to speak.

Brian’s silent suffering weighs heavily on his wife, Saya, played by Catalina Sandino. As she struggles with her grief and the burden of caring for her mute and discouraged husband, Saya reaches a breaking point and decides to leave. Her departure becomes the catalyst for Brian’s renewed determination to seek revenge on the gang that tore his family apart.

Silent Night Game at Lionsgate

Innovative approach

“Making a film without dialogue is more difficult,” Woo said. “You have to think more than usual. You have to find new ways, new styles and a completely unique language to tell the story. The sound, the vision. Use vision rather than language.

Joel Kinnaman reflects on his collaboration with Woo, describing him as “not only an iconic director but a master of the camera.” Kinnaman emphasizes the director’s ability to convey powerful narratives through complex camera movements and direction.

“This film opens up so many opportunities for beautiful shots. It will be a very artistic film,” Kinnaman said.

With “Silent Night,” Woo redefines the action genre, offering a quiet yet powerful exploration of loss, resilience and revenge.