The Stephen Amell Superhero Movie On Netflix That Deserves Its Own Franchise
The 2019 sci-fi action film Code 8 is streaming on Netflix. Directed by Jeff Chan, the movie is based on a 2016 short film of the same name. The feature-length version stars Robbie Amell as Connor Reed, Stephen Amell as Garrett Kelton, Greg Bryk as Marcus Sutcliffe, Kari Matchett as Mary Reed, Kyla Kane as Nia, Sung Kang as Officer Park, and Aaron Abrams as Officer Davis.
Code 8 is set in the fictional Lincoln City, where a large portion of the population possesses superhuman abilities. These individuals, known as Powers, are often discriminated against by society, leading many to use their abilities for criminal activities. The story revolves around Connor Reed, a young man with electrokinetic abilities struggling to make ends meet.
Code 8 received generally positive reviews from critics who praised its gritty and grounded approach to the superhero genre.
Connor lives in a run-down neighborhood and takes on menial jobs using his powers for extra money as his mother, Mary, is seriously ill. Faced with mounting medical bills and the threat of losing their home, Connor decides to use his powers for criminal purposes. He joins a crew led by Garrett, who also possesses superhuman telekinetic abilities.
Garrett’s crew specializes in high-stakes heists and robberies, making use of their powers to carry out elaborate and dangerous schemes. As Code 8 progresses, Connor becomes more deeply involved in the criminal world, facing several moral and ethical dilemmas. As such, Conner is torn between helping his mother and his growing unease with the illegal activities he’s involved in.
Meanwhile, the city’s law enforcement is cracking down on Powers, using advanced technology and militarized tactics to control and contain them. A no-nonsense police officer named Agent Park is determined to bring down Garrett’s crew and dismantle the criminal network of specials. Code 8 escalates as Connor and Garrett’s crew plan a high-stakes heist that could change their lives forever.
Code 8 is set in the fictional Lincoln City, where a large portion of the population possesses superhuman abilities
Code 8 explores themes of discrimination, social inequality, and the consequences of desperation in a society that ostracizes those who are different. The film’s action sequences and character-driven storytelling contribute to its overall appeal and resonance with audiences who appreciate thought-provoking sci-fi with a unique take on the superhero genre.
The Code 8 short film, which also featured Robbie Amell, served as a proof of concept. Its success led to a crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo to finance the feature-length version. The campaign raised over $2.4 million, making it one of the most successful film campaigns on the platform at the time. Filming took place in Toronto, with production using practical effects to create the superhuman abilities.
Code 8 had a limited theatrical release and was primarily distributed digitally through platforms like Netflix. While specific box office figures for its limited theatrical run are not readily available, the film gained popularity through streaming.
Code 8 received generally positive reviews from critics who praised its gritty and grounded approach to the superhero genre. The performances of real-life cousins Robbie Amell and Stephen Amell added a personal touch to their on-screen relationship. The film currently holds an 81 percent critics rating on review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes alongside a 61 percent audience rating.
A Code 8 Spin-Off Remains In Limbo
A spin-off series based on Code 8 was announced in December 2019, with Robbie and Stephen Amell reprising their roles. Directed by Jeff Chan from a script by Chris Pare, the series was initially planned for Quibi. However, with the subsequent news of Quibi’s closure, the status of the show remains unknown.
In June 2021, a sequel, Code 8: Part II, was announced, with Robbie and Stephen Amell returning to their respective roles. The movie, whose global distribution rights belong to Netflix, is directed by Jeff Chan from a screenplay he co-wrote with Chris Pare, Sherren Lee, and Jesse LaVercombe.
Code 8: Part II delves into the lives of the 4 percent of Lincoln City’s population with superhuman abilities. The story centers on a teenage girl’s quest for justice after her brother is unjustly killed by corrupt members of the police force. She becomes a key witness to a cover-up and finds herself in grave danger. She seeks assistance from a former convict and his former criminal partner.
Members of the cast confirmed that filming began in November 2021, with a possible Code 8: Part III in the works. The news isn’t surprising since 2019’s Code 8 found success and a dedicated fanbase over the years.
