“Snake Eyes: G.I. Joe Origins” (2021) attempts to breathe new life into the G.I. Joe franchise by offering an origin story for one of its most iconic characters. Directed by Robert Schwentke and starring Henry Golding in the titular role, the film explores the journey of Snake Eyes, a lone fighter seeking vengeance and purpose. However, while the movie brings in fresh elements of martial arts, loyalty, and betrayal, it struggles with its identity between a grounded samurai epic and a flashy blockbuster.

Henry Golding delivers a compelling performance, showcasing the emotional and physical struggles of a man torn between personal revenge and a newfound sense of honor. His portrayal brings a more human and vulnerable side to Snake Eyes, a character traditionally depicted as a silent, masked warrior. The film introduces Tommy Arashikage, played by Andrew Koji, who later becomes Storm Shadow, Snake Eyes’ greatest rival and former brother-in-arms. Their dynamic is one of the movie’s strongest aspects, as it adds depth to their eventual feud.

The action sequences, heavily inspired by classic samurai films and modern martial arts cinema, offer stylish choreography and well-executed set pieces. The sword fights and hand-to-hand combat scenes are engaging, though at times, excessive shaky cam and quick cuts hinder the clarity of movement. The film’s cinematography and production design do a solid job of immersing the audience in the world of the Arashikage clan, blending elements of traditional Japanese aesthetics with a modern action thriller feel.

Where Snake Eyes falters is in its storytelling and connection to the larger G.I. Joe universe. While the film presents an intriguing character study, it struggles with pacing and inconsistent tonal shifts. The inclusion of G.I. Joe and Cobra elements feels somewhat forced, making the movie feel like it is neither a pure origin story nor a full-fledged G.I. Joe film. The villains, particularly The Baroness (Úrsula Corberó) and Kenta (Takehiro Hira), lack depth, serving more as narrative devices than compelling antagonists.

Another divisive aspect is the portrayal of Snake Eyes himself. Traditionally, he is known for his unwavering loyalty and discipline, but in this film, his choices are often questionable, making it harder for longtime fans to root for him. His betrayal of Tommy and the consequences that follow are compelling but also raise concerns about whether the film truly captures the essence of the character as he is known in the G.I. Joe mythos.

Visually, Snake Eyes is impressive, with strong production design and a unique blend of neon-lit urban settings and traditional Japanese temples. The CGI, while not groundbreaking, serves its purpose in enhancing the action scenes. The film’s score complements its tone, though it does not leave a lasting impact.

Overall, Snake Eyes: G.I. Joe Origins is an ambitious attempt to reinvent a fan-favorite character with a grounded and personal backstory. While Henry Golding’s charisma, strong action sequences, and the rivalry between Snake Eyes and Storm Shadow add intrigue, the film ultimately suffers from uneven pacing, underdeveloped villains, and a narrative that struggles to balance its personal story with its franchise obligations. Despite its flaws, it remains an entertaining martial arts action film that might appeal to casual viewers but leaves hardcore G.I. Joe fans divided.