Panama (2022)

"Panama (2022)" earns its place on a "Best Mark Neveldine Movies" list for its undeniable adherence to Neveldine's signature maximalist, high-octane filmmaking style. Even in this more contained thriller, Neveldine’s visceral approach is on full display. He crafts a narrative that pulses with an almost relentless energy, utilizing frenetic editing, gritty cinematography, and a palpable sense of urgency that mirrors his earlier, more anarchic works. While the plot of a lone marine navigating a treacherous mission in a politically charged landscape might seem a departure, Neveldine injects it with his characteristic explosive flair, ensuring that the tension is not just present but amplified through every jarring cut and intense close-up. Furthermore, "Panama" showcases Neveldine's enduring ability to craft raw, character-driven performances within his chaotic frameworks. Mel Gibson, as a grizzled veteran, and Cole Hauser, as the determined marine, are given ample room to inhabit their roles with a rough-hewn intensity that resonates with the gritty realism Neveldine often favors. The film’s exploration of moral ambiguity and the harsh realities of conflict, while perhaps less overtly gonzo than some of his past projects, still carries the unmistakable Neveldine stamp of pushing boundaries and confronting uncomfortable truths with a bold, unapologetic vision. It’s a testament to his continued evolution as a director who can deliver both explosive spectacle and compelling, character-focused narratives.