HYENA (2025) is a gritty, action-packed thriller that dives deep into the underworld of organized crime, where survival often means becoming the very monster you’re fighting. Directed by David Lynch, the film tells the story of Jack Calloway (played by Michael Fassbender), an ex-special forces operative turned mercenary who is forced to confront the very criminal syndicate he’s been working for after discovering dark secrets that could tear the city apart.

Set in a modern-day metropolis plagued by rampant corruption, drug trafficking, and violence, HYENA blends elements of noir, crime drama, and psychological thriller, keeping viewers on edge throughout its brutal and suspenseful narrative. As Jack becomes entangled in a conspiracy involving powerful crime bosses, law enforcement, and rogue mercenaries, he must choose between his own survival and doing what’s right.

Key Highlights:

• Michael Fassbender’s Performance: Fassbender delivers a powerhouse performance as Jack Calloway, a man haunted by his past and struggling to maintain his humanity in an environment that demands ruthlessness. His portrayal is both intense and nuanced, capturing the internal conflict of a man who has been hardened by years of violence but still retains a moral compass, however faint. Fassbender’s commanding presence elevates the film and adds emotional depth to what could otherwise be a standard action hero.

• Dark, Gritty Atmosphere: The film’s setting is one of its standout features. The urban landscape feels alive with menace—grim alleyways, neon-lit streets, and the ever-present tension between the police and criminal factions. The cinematography captures the city’s oppressive atmosphere perfectly, with sharp, intense lighting and shadowing that echo the movie’s themes of deception and moral ambiguity.

• Action & Combat Sequences: HYENA doesn’t shy away from intense and brutal action. From close-quarter combat to high-octane shootouts, the action sequences are expertly choreographed and gritty, making every confrontation feel real and dangerous. The fight scenes, while violent, are well-paced and add to the film’s tension, particularly when Jack has to use his military training to outsmart and overpower his enemies.

• Psychological Depth & Moral Conflict: What sets HYENA apart from typical action films is its psychological depth. Jack’s internal struggle between loyalty to his employers and his growing sense of justice is what drives the film. As the story unfolds, we see Jack slowly unravel the layers of corruption around him, forcing him to confront not just the criminal underworld but also his own moral decay. This emotional complexity adds an intriguing layer to the narrative, making it more than just a typical revenge story.