The Bluff Movie Review
Title: The Bluff
Director: Frank E. Flowers
Writers: Frank E. Flowers, Joe Ballarini
Cast: Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Karl Urban, Ismael Cruz Córdova, Safia Oakley-Green, Temuera Morrison
Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama, History
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Language: English
Runtime: 1 hour 43 minutes
Rating: R (for strong violence)
Story Summary
Set in the mid-19th century Caribbean, The Bluff follows Ercel (Priyanka Chopra Jonas), a seemingly quiet island mother whose violent past resurfaces. Once known as the dreaded pirate “Bloody Mary,” Ercel is forced back into combat when a group of seafarers led by Captain Connor (Karl Urban) arrive at her home in search of hidden treasure.
As threats intensify, Ercel must fight not just for her survival but for her children, her community, and the secrets she’s buried. With her husband allegedly held hostage aboard Connor’s ship, the stakes are personal and deadly.
Performances
Priyanka Chopra is the undeniable heart of The Bluff. Her portrayal of Ercel balances vulnerability, fury, and control with convincing ease. She brings physical intensity to the role, navigating sword fights, flintlock shootouts, and hand-to-hand combat with grit and precision.
Karl Urban plays a suitably menacing villain, while Safia Oakley-Green adds a touch of levity and curiosity as Ercel’s younger sister-in-law. Ismael Cruz Córdova’s role, though limited in screen time, provides the emotional anchor to Ercel’s motivations.
Direction and Production
Director Frank E. Flowers draws inspiration from Caribbean folklore, giving the film an atmospheric authenticity. The cinematography captures lush island landscapes and brutal combat in equal measure. The pacing can occasionally feel rushed, but the film compensates with intense action sequences and a satisfying character arc.
The blend of historical setting and modern filmmaking works well here, though some moments veer into melodrama.
Verdict
The Bluff is not just a tale of revenge or treasure—it’s about a woman reconciling with her past to protect her future. While the film leans heavily on genre tropes, it stands out due to Priyanka Chopra’s commanding performance and its unique setting.
It’s a gritty, blood-soaked ride with heart, and well worth a watch for fans of action, pirate lore, or strong female leads.
Final Rating: 3.5 out of 5