Free Fire (HBO)

About Free Fire (HBO)

Released in 2017, "Free Fire" is a British action-comedy film directed by Ben Wheatley. Set in 1978 Boston, the story unfolds at a time when two gangs meet in a deserted warehouse and engage in a fierce gun battle after an arms deal goes awry. Initially attempted to be a peaceful transaction, the situation spirals out of control, sparking off a game of survival where everyone is out for themselves.

Making / Production

"Free Fire" is the brainchild of Ben Wheatley, who also co-wrote the film with Amy Jump. The film's production started in 2015 and it was shot entirely in Brighton, UK. The filmmakers aimed to capture the chaotic energy and tension of an all-out firefight in a single location, giving a fresh take on the action genre.

Actors

• Brie Larson as Justine: She plays an intermediary in the deal, her character's unexpected actions and decisions provide some of the film's biggest twists.
• Sharlto Copley as Vernon: Portraying an arms dealer with a volatile temperament, Copley's performance added much of the film's comedic elements.
• Cillian Murphy as Chris: Murphy portrays an Irish gang member whose motives and alliances remain ambiguous throughout the film.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The shooting stage was the largest ever constructed in Brighton and was essentially one large room.
• The movie was filmed over seven weeks with about ten days spent on the setup and the rest on the shootout.
• Director Ben Wheatley was inspired by a real FBI report about a shootout that lasted several hours.

Quotes

• "I'm not running a pizza delivery service. Your guns are on the way. They'll be here in a moment."
• "I forgot whose side I'm on!"
• "We can't all be nice girls."

Music and Soundtrack

• The film score was composed by Geoff Barrow and Ben Salisbury.
• John Denver's song "Annie's Song" plays a critical role in the film and is used as a significant plot device.
• The soundtrack helps to set the 1970s scene, with its blend of funk, jazz, and soul.

Awards

Though "Free Fire" didn't bag any major awards, its fresh approach to the action genre and interesting performances received praise from both the audience and critics.