In a surprising twist on the action genre, Daisy Ridley stars as Joey Locke, an unconventional protagonist who finds herself at the center of a high-stakes crisis. The film, directed by Martin Campbell, takes place in London's iconic Shard skyscraper, where Joey works as a window cleaner. Her mundane daily routine is shattered when a group of eco-terrorists seize control of the building during a lavish party. As the situation escalates into a hostage standoff, Joey must rely on her past military training to navigate this perilous scenario.
The story delves deeper into Joey's personal life, revealing her struggles with balancing work and family responsibilities. Her autistic brother Michael becomes a crucial element in the plot, adding emotional depth to the narrative. Trapped inside the building, Michael's safety becomes Joey's primary concern. Despite being confined to a cleaning platform hundreds of feet above ground, Joey's unique vantage point allows her to observe and respond to the unfolding chaos. Campbell skillfully uses the urban landscape to create suspense, ensuring that each scene remains visually engaging and thrilling.
Beyond its entertaining action sequences, 'Cleaner' highlights the resilience and adaptability of individuals faced with extraordinary circumstances. It reminds us that heroes can emerge from unexpected places and backgrounds. Even though the script may falter at times, the film's core message about perseverance and resourcefulness shines through. Ultimately, it serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of well-crafted action thrillers that prioritize storytelling and character development over spectacle alone.