'Mayhem!' Struggles to Live Up to Its Title in Xavier Gens' Latest Action Film

Despite its violent premise, the film focuses more on character development and the protagonist's struggle for redemption.

Xavier Gens' new action film 'Mayhem!' is a subdued affair that takes more than 40 minutes to build up to its promised pandemonium.
The film's protagonist, Sam, is an ex-con played by French-Algerian actor and kickboxer Nassim Lyes, who is trying to build a new life for himself and his family in Thailand.
Sam's attempt at a peaceful life is disrupted when a mob boss lures him back into crime, leading to the death of his pregnant girlfriend and the kidnapping of his stepdaughter.
Despite the film's violent premise, Gens' direction focuses more on character development and the protagonist's struggle for redemption.
'Mayhem!' is set to be released in theaters and on VOD on Friday, January 5 by IFC Films.