Silent Trigger (1996)

"Silent Trigger" (1996) is a stylish and gritty action film featuring Dolph Lundgren as Waxman, a former Special Forces soldier turned highly skilled assassin for a shadowy government agency. The film expertly sets the stage for a high-stakes mission, where Waxman, holed up in a skyscraper, provides sniper cover for a heist, but when the operation goes sideways, he and his partner, Clegg, become targets of the very agency they serve. The film’s tight focus on Waxman, his meticulous preparation, and his internal struggle create a tense atmosphere, keeping the audience guessing about who can be trusted and who is the enemy. This entry rightly deserves a spot on a "Best Russell Mulcahy Movies" list. "Silent Trigger" is classic Mulcahy; a visually arresting and action-packed film that leans heavily into its stylistic flair. The film utilizes Mulcahy's signature dynamic camera work, particularly through the use of the first-person perspective shots from Waxman's sniper rifle, creating a palpable sense of tension and dread. The futuristic setting, combined with the unique use of sound design to highlight the precision and silence of the assassination, further solidifies Mulcahy's ability to create a distinctive and memorable cinematic experience.