The Bluff, starring Priyanka Chopra Jonas, has finally been released. Set against the rugged backdrop of the 19th-century Caribbean, this survival-driven swashbuckler follows Ercell “Bloody Mary” Bodden,
a former pirate trying to leave her violent past behind. While she is now living a quiet life with her family, her peace is shattered when her former captain returns, seeking revenge and a long-lost treasure.
Directed by Frank E. Flowers and written by Joe Ballarini alongside Flowers, the film also features Karl Urban, Safia Oakley-Green, Vedanten Naidoo, Temuera Morrison and Ismael Cruz Córdova in key roles. Packed with action, emotion and high-stakes drama, the big question remains — is The Bluff worth your time? Let’s find out.
What is the first thing that comes to your mind when you think of pirates? Of course, vast open seas, towering ships cutting through violent waves and fierce battles unfolding amid raging storms. The romance and danger of life at sea have long defined the pirate genre, setting expectations for adventure, scale and unpredictability. Unfortunately, The Bluff moves away from these familiar elements far too quickly, leaving viewers with a very different experience.
The film opens on a promising note, briefly immersing audiences in the rugged maritime world one associates with pirate lore. However, within the first 15 minutes, the narrative shifts almost entirely from the sea to a remote island (where Priyanka Chopra’s character stays now with her family). While some may argue that this must have been done to offer a fresh perspective, honestly, it does not look exciting but disappointing. Instead of expanding the world, the island backdrop makes the story feel visually and emotionally contained. The execution feels limiting rather than innovative.
While The Bluff attempts to revive the old-school pirate adventure with a darker, survival-driven twist, it does not meet expectations. The film lacks when it comes to gripping story-telling and direction. It never fully sails into greatness.
As far as the plot is also concerned, The Bluff offers nothing new or ground-breaking to the audience. The film is predictable and lacks ‘Woah’ moments. It never realty makes you feel – ‘What will happen next?’ Why? Because you can easily predict the next plot twist.
However, The Bluff’s biggest strength is Priyanka Chopra Jonas herself. She delivers a performance that rises above the film’s uneven storytelling. PeeCee carries the emotional and physical weight of the story. Whether she is fighting brutal enemies or sharing quiet, intimate moments with her daughter and family, Priyanka brings a layered vulnerability that makes her character feel real and relatable. Her transformation between a protective mother and a ruthless fighter gives the character depth and is worth watching and appreciating.
Other than PeeCee, The Bluff makers waste a talented cast. While Karl Urban never really gets the chance to showcase something which he has never done before, Temuera Morrison was also not given the screentime his character deserved.
Overall, one should watch The Bluff only for one reason – Priyanka Chopra.
