Ambulance (2022), directed by Michael Bay, is an intense action-packed thriller that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Known for his explosive style, Bay brings his signature high-octane action and frenetic energy to this heist-gone-wrong story. The film features a gripping plot, jaw-dropping action sequences, and emotional undercurrents, making it an engaging watch for fans of the genre.
The plot follows two brothers, Will (Yahya Abdul-Mateen II) and Danny (Jake Gyllenhaal), who find themselves caught up in a bank robbery. Will, a decorated war veteran, is struggling to secure funds for his wife’s life-saving surgery. Desperate, he turns to his adoptive brother, Danny, a seasoned criminal, for help. Danny offers Will a way out through a high-stakes heist, promising that it’s a “quick and easy” job. However, things spiral out of control when the robbery goes wrong, leaving them with no choice but to hijack an ambulance with a paramedic, Cam (Eiza González), and a critically wounded cop inside. What follows is a tense, fast-paced chase across Los Angeles as the brothers navigate the law, their morals, and their relationship.
Michael Bay’s Ambulance delivers exactly what his fans have come to expect: explosive car chases, adrenaline-pumping action, and larger-than-life sequences that defy logic but captivate audiences. The film’s setting, with much of the action taking place inside a speeding ambulance, adds a layer of claustrophobia and urgency. The streets of Los Angeles become a battleground, with police in pursuit, and the brothers attempting to outmaneuver them at every turn. The tension never lets up, making the film feel like one long, unrelenting thrill ride.
One of the standout elements of Ambulance is the dynamic between the two brothers. Yahya Abdul-Mateen II brings depth to Will, portraying him as a man driven by desperation and love for his family, while Jake Gyllenhaal’s portrayal of Danny is wild and unhinged. Gyllenhaal leans into the chaotic nature of his character, offering a manic energy that contrasts with Will’s more grounded persona. Their relationship adds emotional weight to the film, making it more than just an action movie; it’s a story about family, sacrifice, and moral dilemmas. Eiza González also shines as Cam, a paramedic thrown into a terrifying situation, fighting to save a life while caught between two criminals and the police.
The cinematography is quintessentially Bay, with sweeping drone shots, rapid cuts, and grandiose camera angles that heighten the sense of speed and danger. The action sequences are over-the-top in the best possible way, full of crashes, explosions, and high-speed chases that push the limits of reality. But that’s part of the appeal; Ambulance isn’t trying to be a grounded crime drama—it’s a full-throttle action experience.
Despite its thrills, the film isn’t without its flaws. Some may find the relentless pace exhausting, and the lack of character development for some supporting roles leaves certain emotional beats feeling unearned. However, if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush and are a fan of Bay’s bombastic style, Ambulance will undoubtedly deliver.
In conclusion, Ambulance (2022) is a wild, intense ride from start to finish. It offers a blend of heart-pounding action, high-stakes drama, and emotional depth, all while showcasing Michael Bay’s flair for spectacle. It’s a perfect watch for action lovers seeking an immersive, fast-paced experience that doesn’t hold back. If you enjoy high-speed chases, explosive sequences, and complex family dynamics, Ambulance is a film worth watching.
