Released in 2011, Colombiana is an action thriller that left a strong impression on audiences with its intense action sequences and Zoe Saldana’s outstanding performance. Directed by Olivier Megaton and produced by Luc Besson, the film delivers a gripping story of revenge, honor, and survival, embodying the signature style of high-octane action that Besson is known for.
Plot Summary
The movie follows Cataleya Restrepo, a nine-year-old girl from Colombia who witnesses the brutal murder of her parents at the hands of drug lord Don Luis. She manages to escape to the United States, where she is raised by her uncle Emilio, a criminal who trains her to become a skilled assassin.
As an adult, Cataleya (played by Zoe Saldana) embarks on a quest for vengeance, carrying out a series of assassinations while leaving behind a signature mark—a Colombian orchid (Colombiana)—as a warning to Don Luis. Her relentless pursuit of justice soon puts her in the crosshairs of both the underworld and the FBI, leading to a high-stakes battle where survival is the only option.
Cast and Performances
- Zoe Saldana delivers a powerful performance as Cataleya, portraying a fierce yet emotionally complex assassin.
- Cliff Curtis plays Emilio Restrepo, her mentor and father figure.
- Lennie James portrays Special Agent Ross, who is determined to track down Cataleya.
- Michael Vartan stars as Danny Delanay, Cataleya’s unsuspecting boyfriend.
- Jordi Mollà plays Marco, Don Luis’s ruthless right-hand man.
Box Office and Reception
With a budget of $40 million, Colombiana grossed $63.4 million worldwide. While it wasn’t a massive box office hit, the film found an audience among action fans.
Critically, Colombiana received mixed reviews. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a 27% critic score, but it fares better with audiences, achieving 67% positive reviews. On IMDb, the film has a rating of 6.4/10, with praise for its action sequences and Zoe Saldana’s performance.
Is There a Sequel?
Despite ongoing rumors, there is no official confirmation of Colombiana 2. While the film’s ending left room for a possible continuation, neither the producers nor the director have announced plans for a sequel.
You can refer to the following fan-made trailer:
Conclusion
Colombiana is a must-watch for action fans who enjoy stories of vengeance and strong female leads. With exhilarating fight scenes, a compelling storyline, and Zoe Saldana’s charismatic presence, the film remains a solid choice even over a decade after its release. If you’re a fan of movies like John Wick or La Femme Nikita, Colombiana is definitely worth watching.
Have you seen Colombiana? What are your thoughts on the film? Share your opinions below!
