This week’s new movies move beyond simple tales of good versus evil, presenting protagonists who operate in complex shades of gray. From an assassin seeking justice to a killer doll fighting for good, these films challenge our ideas of what it means to be a hero.
The protagonist of Ballerina (Starz, out today) is a prime example of a morally ambiguous hero. While her quest for vengeance is relatable, she is a professional killer who navigates a world of extreme violence. The film asks a compelling question: Can a person who deals in death truly achieve justice?
In M3GAN 2.0 (Peacock), the line between hero and villain is completely blurred. M3GAN, the antagonist of the first film, is reactivated to stop a greater evil. Is she a hero for fighting on the right side, or is she simply a weapon being pointed in a new direction? Her character is a fascinating study in purpose and redemption.
Even the hero of The Surfer (Hulu, out today) descends into a moral gray area. As Nicolas Cage’s character is pushed to his limits, his actions become increasingly obsessive and extreme. The film brilliantly documents his transformation from a sympathetic victim into someone whose own morality becomes questionable.
While the young hero of Karate Kid: Legends (Netflix, Saturday) is more straightforward, his mentors represent a gray area. Daniel LaRusso has his own flaws, as seen in Cobra Kai, and Mr. Han’s methods in the 2010 film were harsh. Their combined teachings will likely explore the complex balance between mercy and aggression.
The characters in tomorrow’s All of You (Apple TV+) face a different kind of moral ambiguity: the ethics of unspoken feelings. Their silence, while intended to protect their friendship, could also be seen as a form of deception, creating a rich and complex emotional dilemma.