All seven episodes of Netflix's series adaptation of Man on Fire are now available for streaming.
The series is the third adaptation of A. J. Quinnell's 1980 novel, following a 1987 film and the 2004 film directed by Tony Scott.
Plot Summary
The story follows John Creasy, an ex-CIA operative, as he becomes involved in protecting a teenage girl in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The series is set four years after Creasy and his team were ambushed in Mexico City, an event that left him with post-traumatic stress disorder, suicidal thoughts, and alcoholism.
Creasy is recruited by his former superior Paul Rayburn for a counterterrorism position in Rio de Janeiro. He is assigned to help Rayburn's 16-year-old daughter Poe leave the country safely. Creasy works alongside driver Valeria Melo in this mission.
After a family member is killed in a terrorist bombing in Brazil, Creasy assembles a crew including Poe, Valeria, and a favela resident to pursue extrajudicial revenge. The plot involves political corruption in Brazil and connections to the United States.
Cast and Production
The series stars Yahya Abdul-Mateen II as John Creasy and Billie Boullet as Poe Rayburn. Additional cast members include:
- Bobby Cannavale as Paul Rayburn
- Alice Braga as Valeria Melo
- Scoot McNairy in a supporting role
- Jefferson Baptista in a supporting role
- Iago Xavier in a supporting role
Kyle Killen serves as showrunner and director. The series was filmed in Mexico and Brazil. The production depicts contrasts between affluent neighborhoods and favelas in Rio de Janeiro, with a community of favela residents providing assistance to Creasy and Poe.
Adaptations and Changes
Showrunner Kyle Killen has made changes to the story, characters, and setting to distinguish this version from previous adaptations. According to sources, this version emphasizes camaraderie over nihilistic violence and positions itself as an ongoing series with potential for future seasons. The plot and nature of the revenge are described as new and not directly following the book or prior films.
The series features action sequences including an airplane chase directed by Steven Caple Jr., a prison break, and a home invasion.
Critical Reception
Reviews note that the bond between Creasy and Poe is highlighted in the series. Some reviewers compared this relationship unfavorably to the 2004 film starring Denzel Washington and Dakota Fanning.
The narrative has been described as predictable and becoming over-elaborate toward the finale.
Performances are generally considered competent but not exceptional, with reviewers noting an upbeat tone and formulaic execution. Some critics identified underdeveloped characters and a lack of tension as weaknesses.