When Chris Evans and Ana de Armas reunite on screen, expectations are bound to be high. The two stars previously captivated audiences in Knives Out (2019), where their undeniable chemistry sparked curiosity about what they could achieve together in future projects. In 2023, they brought their dynamic energy to Ghosted, a fast-paced action-romance that blends thrilling suspense with lighthearted moments. This film offers a fresh twist on the spy genre, with Evans and de Armas playing key roles in a globe-trotting adventure filled with secrets, danger, and a dash of humor.
Directed by Dexter Fletcher (Rocketman), Ghosted follows the story of Cole (Chris Evans), a seemingly ordinary guy who gets swept up in a whirlwind romance with the mysterious Sadie (Ana de Armas). What starts as a charming love story soon spirals into an action-packed thriller when Cole discovers that Sadie is not who she claims to be. Far from a typical rom-com or spy thriller, Ghosted plays with genre conventions and keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, making it a must-watch for fans of both stars and action movies.
The Plot: A Love Story Gone Rogue
The film opens with Cole, a kind-hearted but somewhat naive plant seller living in Washington, D.C. His life takes an unexpected turn when he meets Sadie, a globetrotting woman with a mysterious aura. Their brief but passionate fling turns into something deeper, but when Cole gets ghosted by Sadie after their one-night affair, he is left heartbroken and confused. Determined to track her down, he embarks on a mission to find her, only to discover that Sadie is not just a regular woman—she’s an undercover CIA agent.
Things take a sharp turn when Cole is pulled into an international conspiracy involving global espionage, dangerous enemies, and secret government agencies. What seemed like a typical romance quickly escalates into a high-octane adventure as Cole becomes entangled in Sadie’s world of covert missions and life-or-death situations. Forced to work together to survive, Cole and Sadie navigate betrayals, chase scenes, and intense confrontations while trying to uncover the truth behind the mysterious forces targeting them. The stakes are higher than ever, and Cole must decide whether he can trust Sadie or if he’s been duped all along.
Chris Evans and Ana de Armas: A Winning Pairing
One of the most enjoyable aspects of Ghosted is the undeniable chemistry between Chris Evans and Ana de Armas. The two actors had previously impressed audiences with their roles in Knives Out, but in Ghosted, they deliver something entirely different, showcasing their versatility and comedic timing. While Evans is best known for his portrayal of Captain America in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, in Ghosted, he trades in his shield for a much more grounded, albeit slightly hapless, romantic lead. His portrayal of Cole offers a refreshing change of pace from his usual action-hero roles, allowing Evans to explore a more vulnerable and comedic side.
Ana de Armas, on the other hand, continues to prove herself as a powerhouse in both action and drama. From Blade Runner 2049 to No Time to Die, she has demonstrated her ability to take on complex roles, and in Ghosted, she brings a cool, confident energy to Sadie, a woman who is both a heartbreaker and a fierce agent. De Armas and Evans play off each other wonderfully, balancing tension and humor with a natural ease that keeps the audience invested in their relationship, even as their characters navigate the chaos around them.
Their dynamic is a key driving force of the film. The contrast between Cole’s bumbling, well-meaning nature and Sadie’s tough, no-nonsense persona creates a perfect foil. The pair’s growing trust and camaraderie amid the action-packed chaos form the emotional core of the film, making their partnership not only believable but also deeply engaging.
The Genre-Bending Formula
Ghosted is not your typical action movie or romantic comedy. Instead, it blends elements of both genres to create a unique experience. At its heart, the film is a love story between two people from vastly different worlds—Cole, an everyday man who just wants to find love, and Sadie, a high-powered CIA agent who is thrust into dangerous situations. The film plays with romantic tropes, offering moments of sweetness and vulnerability, but it also subverts expectations by shifting gears into full-blown action sequences.
The action scenes in Ghosted are thrilling and expertly choreographed, with chase sequences, shootouts, and espionage-filled intrigue taking the lead. The tension between the protagonists often manifests through their interactions in high-stakes moments, where Cole must learn to trust his instincts and Sadie’s expertise to stay alive. There’s a refreshing sense of fun in these sequences, as the film never takes itself too seriously, allowing Evans and de Armas to shine through both their comedic timing and their ability to handle more intense, high-stakes moments.
Additionally, Ghosted features several unexpected plot twists and reveals, which keep the audience guessing until the very end. As Cole delves deeper into Sadie’s world, the lines between ally and enemy blur, and the couple must confront difficult truths about trust, loyalty, and survival. These twists and turns, along with the combination of humor and high-octane action, help distinguish Ghosted from other films in the genre.
A Globetrotting Adventure
The film’s global setting also adds a layer of excitement to the narrative. From the streets of Washington, D.C., to exotic locations across the world, Ghosted is a visual feast. The diverse locations not only provide stunning backdrops for the action but also contribute to the feeling of a larger-than-life adventure. The film’s pacing moves quickly as the characters jump from one dangerous scenario to the next, keeping the tension high throughout the film.
The cinematography, combined with Dexter Fletcher’s direction, creates an engaging atmosphere, balancing the intensity of the action with moments of character development and humor. The supporting cast also brings depth to the story, with appearances from well-known actors who add their own flair to the film’s world.
Conclusion: A Fun, Thrilling Ride
Ghosted may not break new ground in the spy genre, but it’s a thoroughly enjoyable, action-packed romp that benefits from the chemistry between Chris Evans and Ana de Armas. Their dynamic is the heart of the film, making it more than just a typical action movie. With its blend of romance, humor, and adrenaline-fueled action, Ghosted is a fun, fast-paced ride that keeps viewers entertained from start to finish.
For fans of action-comedies and anyone looking for an entertaining escape, Ghosted delivers just the right mix of romance, thrills, and surprises. Whether you’re rooting for the charming but clumsy Cole or the mysterious and capable Sadie, Ghosted is a delightful watch that proves Evans and de Armas are a dynamic duo worth revisiting again and again.