Charlize Theron and Taron Egerton clash in this intense thriller.
Written by Kristy Puchko on April 23, 2026.
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Would you rather be stuck in the woods with a man or a bear? This hypothetical question stirred up conversations on TikTok in 2024, with many women choosing the bear, highlighting rape culture issues. Meanwhile, others found it concerning that a random man was perceived as a greater threat than a wild animal. Now, Netflix’s “Apex” could reignite this debate.
Note: There is no bear in “Apex.” Theron stars as Sasha, a resilient rock climber, aiming to kayak in the Australian wilderness alone. Her plans are thwarted by Ben (Egerton), initially friendly but soon the real danger.
This film, fueled by violence and fear, features an action heroine versus a madman in ruthless terrain.
“Apex” will leave you unsettled from its first scene. Directed by Baltasar Kormákur, the film begins with Sasha and her partner Tommy (Eric Bana) camping on a cliff. The realization of their precarious position had my heart racing. Disaster soon strikes the adventurous couple, presenting brutal violence that haunts Sasha’s future adventures. Egerton’s character transitions from a helpful stranger to a relentless hunter, reminiscent of Kevin Bacon in “The River Wild.”
“Apex” showcases intense action sequences set against stunning landscapes, making it a pity not to witness them in theaters as critics did. Another highlight is Egerton’s career-defining performance, where he embodies both a mirthful helper and a calculating predator. His portrayal is chilling and captivating, adding depth to the tension.
Streaming on Netflix, “Apex” promises a relentless and thrill-packed experience with gnarly twists. It releases on April 24.