Cindy Martinez
Kevin Hart is known throughout Hollywood for his comedic persona, which made him the perfect fit for the role of Cyrus Whitaker in the Comedy Action film “Lift.” Cyrus, an internationally known art thief, makes his money illegally by going to art auctions and buying expensive art pieces using money he made from art resales on the Black Market. The action-heist-filled movie was directed by F. Gary Gray and written by Daniel Kunka. It was released on Jan. 12.
The film “Lift” held the number seven spot at the top of Netflix’s trending films. It also had over 36.7 million views, landing it in the Top 10 in over 93 countries since its release in early January. The movie had a production budget of 100 million dollars, which was evident in its luxurious settings across Europe, including Venice and Tuscany. The opening scene starts in Venice with a high-speed boating chase after Cyrus steals an NFT-valued art piece by artist N8, setting off a chain reaction for a film filled with adventure and laughs.
Cyrus and his team are a task force known for stealing famous pieces of art and operating these art heists illegally. He is infamous among government agencies like Interpol and the CIA for stealing prestigious pieces of art. However, as much as Interpol tries to stop him, Cyrus cannot be caught in the act of his heists. Interpol agent Abby is sent by her boss to recruit Cyrus and his team for a mission to help them steal a transport of gold from a dangerous criminal. In return for Cyrus’s help, Abby promises to give Cyrus and his team a clean slate with no charges against them. However, Cyrus knows his worth and is hesitant at first but then complies with the mission to recover tons of gold from the enemy, “Leviathan.”
The newly found partnership then sets out to carry out its mission, but along the way, they run into someone they never expected: someone who embodies the adage “keep your friends close and your enemies closer.” With this obstacle now in the way, the team must find a way to rise above all odds.
In appreciation for the opportunity to play Cyrus Whitaker, according to a Netflix interview, Hart said, “Taking on the role of an action hero and heist boss like Cyrus has been a non-stop thrill ride for me. Teaming up with F. Gary Gray, who has directed some of my all-time favorite action movies, and working with this unbelievable ensemble cast in the most incredible locations elevated the whole experience to another level.”
The film takes audiences on a journey of laughs, witty jokes, betrayal, heroism and more. It will leave the viewers on edge about the destiny of these characters if all odds turn against them in the dangerous world filled with action.