Archenemy (2020)

Synopsis

Hamster, an aspiring teen social influencer/journalist, meets a mysterious man who claims to be a superpowered individual who lost his powers and became stuck on our world. The pair team up to clean up the streets and take out a vicious crime boss (who happens to employ Hamster's sister, Indigo).

Review

On the surface, Archenemy, seems like a grittier version of Hancock. Both focus on a down on their luck superhero (though don't call Max a superhero). It's that and more. I don't want to go into too many specifics, because I don't want to spoil the flick for you. Despite Max's aversion to the word super, the film intersperses comic book style animated scenes that give the whole thing a trippy vibe. 

I enjoyed the cast. Joe Mangianello is excellent. He does his best gravelly Nolan Batman voice. His ramblings about Chromia and the cosmic blood are great. He's also just a badass. Yes, I readily admit that I'm a fan boy and that influences my opinion. Skylan Brooks is great as Hamster, while Zolee Griggs also does an excellent job as his older sister, Indigo. The pair have a nice dynamic. As far as the villains go, Glen Howerton is slimy as the criminal known as the Manager. Comedian Paul Scheer has a short scene in the film that was entertaining, but also really caught me off guard.

If you want a comic book thriller that's definitely something different than the MCU, check this one out.

In Your Game

Max Fist

Medium Humanoid, Chaotic Neutral 

Armor Class: 16 (Swat Gear, Sheild and Dexterity)

Hit Points: 75

Speed: 30 ft. 

Challenge: 4

STR:  17 (+3), DEX: 14 (+2), CON: 16 (+3), 

INT: 13 (+1), WIS: 10 (+0), CHA: 10 (+0)

Saving Throws:  Str +5, Con +5

Skills: Athletics +5, Intimidation +5

Senses: Passive Perception: 10

Languages: English

Unique Traits:

Menacing: Max can use his Strength score for Intimidation checks.

Actions:

Multiattack: Max can make two melee attacks.

Punch: Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d4 + 3) bludgeoning damage.

Shield Bash: Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d6+ 3) bludgeoning damage.

Semiautomatic Pistol: Ranged Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, range 50/150 ft., one target. Hit: 9 (2d6+2) piercing damage.