Legacy of Lies (2020)

Legacy of Lies is the kind of lean, muscular espionage thriller that remembers action can tell a story, not just interrupt it—and Scott Adkins is the engine that makes it hum. He brings a worn-in intensity to the ex-MI6 role, and when the film shifts into motion, the fight choreography lands with clean, credible impact rather than noisy chaos. The vibe is sleek and shadowy, with a globetrotting, conspiracy-tinged tension and crisp cinematography that keeps the stakes feeling sharp even in quieter moments. If you’re looking for a character-heavy spy drama you might find it straightforward, but if you want a solid, engaging action thriller anchored by a performer who can truly sell every punch and every glance, this one earns your time.

Legacy of Lies wants to be a slick, globe-trotting spy thriller with a bruised ex-agent pulled back into dangerous secrets and moral gray zones. The problem is it plays like a checklist of espionage clichés, with a thin plot, undercooked characters, and dialogue that rarely lands, so the stakes never really bite. Pacing and sound work can make key moments feel oddly flat, which is fatal for an action-thriller that’s supposed to keep you tense. If you’re craving a fresh, sharply written spy story, this will likely leave you cold—but if you just want a serviceable background watch with a few action beats and a familiar “one last mission” vibe, you might get by.