The Frank Grillo Noir-Thriller Chase Film On Netflix That Is Surprisingly Great

By Doug Norrie | Published

frank grillo wheelman

In the labyrinthine world of crime and betrayal, few movies portray the relentless pursuit of survival as unflinchingly as the high-octane thriller, Wheelman. This raw, nerve-wracking experience thrusts the audience into the driver’s seat, offering a no-holds-barred journey through the chaotic underbelly of the criminal world. Starring the versatile Frank Grillo in the lead role, this Netflix original promises viewers an intense ride filled with unexpected twists and turns. 

Strap yourself in as we navigate through the fast-paced narrative that Wheelman has laid out, where every decision made behind the wheel could very well be the last.

Frank Grillo stars in the Netflix original noir-thriller Wheelman

Wheelman features Frank Grillo in a pulsating role that pits him against the criminal underworld, in a desperate bid to safeguard his family. In this tight, high-stakes narrative, Grillo portrays a seasoned getaway driver, known only as the Wheelman, who finds himself ensnared in a precarious situation following a bank robbery gone awry.

As he navigates the dark streets of the city, constantly in motion, the Wheelman receives mysterious calls from an unknown number, giving him directives that further entwine him in a web of crime and deceit. Throughout the night, he must rely on his wit, driving skills, and sheer determination to maneuver through a complex game where trusting anyone could be a fatal mistake. 

The plot thickens with each passing minute, drawing viewers into a grim, relentless world where the lines between friend and foe blur, making survival an ever-escalating challenge.

Grillo delivers a powerhouse performance, embodying a character who, despite being ensnared in a corrupt environment, displays an unyielding will to protect his family at any cost. The movie’s narrative operates almost in real-time, heightening the suspense and giving audiences little room to breathe as they become deeply immersed in the Wheelman’s harrowing journey through the night. 

In the movie, Frank Grillo’s character is known only as the Wheelman and he’s out to save his family

This Netflix thriller doesn’t just tell a story; it offers viewers a front-seat view into a grim, adrenaline-fueled night where alliances are ephemeral and betrayal is a constant companion.

frank grillo wheelman

The critical reception to Wheelman starring Frank Grillo has indeed been very favorable, as evidenced by its robust score of 88 percent on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics have praised the film for its gritty realism and tense, fast-paced narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

Frank Grillo’s portrayal of the central character, a skilled yet morally conflicted driver, has been particularly lauded for bringing depth and complexity to what could have been a straightforward action role.

Frank Grillo and Wheelman were a hit with critics and the movie is sitting at 88% on Rotten Tomatoes

Critics appreciated the innovative storytelling approach, which is largely confined to the interior of the car, creating a claustrophobic and intensely focused atmosphere that enhances the suspense and tension. This immersive approach, combined with Grillo’s compelling performance, offers a fresh take on the heist and getaway genre, managing to feel both intimate and expansive in scope.

The film’s tight script and well-executed action sequences are noted as highlights, illustrating a masterful balance of narrative tension and explosive action. Furthermore, the movie has been praised for avoiding the trap of clichés, offering instead a raw and unapologetic look into the criminal underworld, where the stakes are high, and the margins for error are slim.

All in all, Wheelman has been heralded as a successful endeavor in the action genre, setting a new benchmark for character-driven thrillers.

In the crowded landscape of action thrillers, Wheelman manages to carve out a distinctive space with its nail-biting narrative and a powerful performance by Frank Grillo. A pulse-pounding ride from start to finish, the film succeeds in offering both high-octane thrills and a thought-provoking exploration of a man’s desperate bid for redemption. 

For those in search of an exhilarating cinematic experience that doesn’t sacrifice depth for action, embarking on this intense journey with Frank Grillo at the wheel promises to be a rewarding choice. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness a gritty, heart-pounding escapade that is as relentless as it is riveting, streaming now on Netflix.