The Bluff (2026) is a swashbuckling action film starring Priyanka Chopra, Karl Urban, and Ismael Cruz Córdova. Released on Amazon Prime Video on February 25, 2026, the film attempts to revive classic pirate-adventure energy with a modern cinematic gloss.
Set on a late 19th-century Caribbean island, the story follows Mary (Chopra), a former pirate captain who has left her life of pillage behind to become a devoted wife and mother. Her quiet life is disrupted when Captain Conner (Urban) resurfaces, seeking revenge for gold she once stole from him. What follows is a familiar tale of past sins catching up to a reluctant hero.
The film wastes little time establishing its premise, but in doing so, it sacrifices depth. Character development is minimal, and the narrative rarely strays from predictable action beats. The storyline feels formulaic, with no surprises and limited emotional weight. Much of the action leans on genre clichés and heavy CGI, which at times overshadows any real tension or originality.
That said, the cinematography is visually appealing, particularly in its sweeping coastal and island landscapes. The pacing remains steady, preventing the film from dragging, and while some action sequences are competently staged, they offer little that feels fresh or inventive. Dialogue is often clunky, and the performance while serviceable doesn’t rise above the material.
Ultimately, The Bluff doesn’t aim high, but it accomplishes what it sets out to do: deliver a straightforward, watchable action film. It may not leave a lasting impression or break new ground in the genre, but for viewers looking for light, action-driven entertainment, it gets the job done.
