Asher (2018), directed by Michael Caton-Jones, is a gripping crime drama that explores themes of redemption, loyalty, and the complexities of leaving behind a violent past. The film follows the story of Asher (played by Ron Perlman), a former Mossad operative turned hitman, who finds himself at a crossroads in life. As he ages and grows weary of the brutal world he’s been a part of, Asher struggles with the consequences of his violent actions and begins to yearn for redemption.
Set in the dangerous, crime-ridden streets of New York City, the film portrays Asher as a man deeply conflicted between his past and his desire for change. For years, he has carried out contract killings for various criminal organizations, earning a reputation as one of the most skilled in the business. But now, tired and feeling the weight of his decisions, Asher longs to break free from the cycle of violence that has defined him.
Asher’s life takes a dramatic turn when he is assigned a job to eliminate a target, only to find that his path crosses with Sophie (Famke Janssen), a makeup artist with a complicated connection to the person he was hired to kill. Sophie’s presence becomes a turning point in Asher’s journey, challenging him to reconsider everything he has known. Through their growing relationship, Asher begins to rediscover his humanity, realizing that perhaps it is not too late to change his ways and seek redemption. However, the violent world he is tied to does not allow for easy escapes, and Asher must confront the harsh realities of loyalty, betrayal, and the dangerous consequences of attempting to leave his old life behind.
The film delves deeply into Asher’s internal struggle. His desire to make amends for his past actions conflicts with the unyielding pressure of his criminal ties. As he navigates the deadly world of crime, Asher’s bond with Sophie becomes his emotional anchor, providing him with hope and motivation to pursue a different life. Yet, the past he cannot escape continually threatens to pull him back in.
Asher explores the duality of human nature — how a person can be defined by both their past and their potential for change. Asher is neither purely a villain nor a hero. His character is complex, filled with contradictions. On one hand, he has committed violent acts, but on the other, his genuine desire for a different life and his deep emotional connection to Sophie demonstrate his capacity for change. The film asks whether someone who has lived a life of violence and crime can ever truly escape their past and redeem themselves.
In conclusion, Asher is a compelling exploration of a man’s struggle for redemption in a world filled with violence and betrayal. Ron Perlman delivers a powerful performance, capturing the internal turmoil of a man caught between the life he has led and the life he desires. The film’s gritty atmosphere, combined with its emotional depth, offers a fresh perspective on the classic hitman genre. For viewers looking for a crime drama with layers of complexity and a strong character-driven story, Asher is a thought-provoking and engaging film that offers a new take on the classic themes of redemption and loyalty.
