She Rides Shotgun Spotlights Trauma Amidst Action

She Rides Shotgun, directed by Nick Rowland and adapted from Jordan Harper’s novel, follows ex-con Nate (Taron Egerton) as he reunites with his estranged daughter Polly (Ana Sophia Heger) to protect her from an Aryan gang after his release from prison. The film grounds its action in Polly’s emotional journey, highlighting her trauma and resilience, with Ana Sophia Heger’s performance earning particular praise. Critics commend the balance between gripping action sequences and intimate, emotionally charged moments, exploring family, vulnerability, and survival. Director Rowland focuses on character depth rather than conventional redemption arcs, showcasing the complexity of the father-daughter relationship amid violence. While the finale embraces genre spectacle, the film is recognized for its thoughtful portrayal of trauma and its impact, especially on children. Many reviewers consider it one of the standout action films of the year for its nuanced approach.