Ambulance is a 2022 American action thriller film directed and produced by Michael Bay. It follows two adoptive brothers (Jake Gyllenhaal and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II) who hijack an ambulance and take two first responders hostage after their $32 million bank heist goes wrong. The film is a remake of the 2005 Danish film of the same name and is renowned for its high-octane action and signature chaotic style.
Buckle up, action fans! The name Michael Bay likely brings to mind explosions, fast cars, and an adrenaline rush that keeps you on the edge of your seat. His 2022 thriller, Ambulance, delivers all of that and more. This isn’t just a high-speed chase; it’s a frantic, pulse-pounding saga set almost entirely within an emergency vehicle, transforming a medical transport into the ultimate escape pod. If you’re wondering whether Ambulance lives up to Bay’s signature “Bayhem,” prepare for an intense ride that subverts the classic story of a bank heist gone spectacularly wrong.
Here at IWatchMovies Blog, we’re diving deep into this chaotic film. Our comprehensive Ambulance movie review covers the high-stakes plot, introduces the compelling cast, and unpacks the dramatic ending. We also explore why this ambitious film struggled at the box office despite positive reactions from audiences. Whether you’re a hardcore cinephile or just looking for a good Friday night flick, we’ve got you covered with insights, analysis, and our final verdict. Let’s find out if this emergency call is worth answering.
What is the film Ambulance about?
The High-Stakes Premise
Ever wondered what happens when a bank heist goes horribly wrong? The Ambulance movie, a high-octane thriller from director Michael Bay, answers that question with a bang. This 2022 film plunges viewers into immediate chaos.
The story kicks off with adoptive brothers Will and Danny Sharp, who, desperate for money, plan a massive bank robbery. However, their elaborate scheme quickly unravels when a shootout erupts, leaving an LAPD officer critically wounded.
In the ensuing chaos, the brothers hijack an ambulance to use as an escape vehicle. Inside, they find a quick-thinking paramedic, Cam Thompson, already treating the injured officer. This unexpected turn elevates the stakes dramatically, transforming their last hope for escape into a mobile hostage situation.
The Ambulance film then transforms into a relentless, city-wide chase with law enforcement in vigorous pursuit. As the brothers fight to evade capture, Cam struggles to save the officer’s life inside the speeding vehicle. The streets of Los Angeles become their battlefield where every turn brings new danger, delivering classic Michael Bay action: explosive, loud, and incredibly fast-paced.
Introducing the Main Characters
At the heart of the Ambulance movie are three key individuals whose fates become intertwined during this desperate flight. Let’s meet them:
- Will Sharp (played by Yahya Abdul-Mateen II): A decorated military veteran and a good man driven to desperation. He needs $231,000 for his wife’s experimental surgery [source: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-reviews/ambulance-review-jake-gyllenhaal-yahya-abdul-mateen-ii-eiza-gonzalez-1235122557/], a situation that leads him to his estranged, criminal brother for help.
- Danny Sharp (played by Jake Gyllenhaal): Will’s charismatic but ruthless adoptive brother. As a career criminal and the mastermind of the heist, he convinces Will to join the job and will do anything to succeed and survive.
- Cam Thompson (played by Eiza González): A highly skilled paramedic known for her composure under pressure. She finds herself in the most extreme situation of her career when trapped in the ambulance, forced to keep an injured police officer alive while navigating the chaos caused by the Sharp brothers.
The intense narrative is driven by these three characters, whose conflicting motivations create constant tension. Will seeks redemption, Danny seeks escape, and Cam just wants to do her job and survive. Their dynamic makes the Ambulance movie 2022 a compelling watch.
Is Ambulance a good movie?
The Pros: Relentless Action and Strong Performances
Is Ambulance a good movie? For action fans seeking pure spectacle, the answer is a resounding yes. Director Michael Bay delivers his signature non-stop, high-octane thrill ride. From the opening scene, the film grabs you and refuses to let go. The action sequences are expertly choreographed and thrilling, featuring a constant barrage of explosive car chases and intense shootouts.
The strong performances also elevate the film’s frantic energy. Jake Gyllenhaal shines as the desperate and unpredictable mastermind, Danny Sharp, with a palpable intensity. As Will Sharp, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II provides a much-needed emotional anchor, grounding the chaos as a man pushed to his limits. Eiza González is also excellent as the resourceful and resilient EMT, Cam Thompson. Their combined chemistry is a highlight, making it easy to root for (or against) them amidst the mayhem and making the stakes feel incredibly real.
The Cons: Signature ‘Bayhem’ Overload
However, Ambulance isn’t without its drawbacks. Michael Bay’s signature style, often dubbed ‘Bayhem,’ has both strengths and weaknesses. While exhilarating, the relentless pace and rapid-fire editing can become overwhelming. Some viewers might find the constant shaky cam and quick cuts disorienting, which at times detracts from the storytelling.
Moreover, the plot occasionally stretches credibility. Some sequences are so unlikely they may test your suspension of disbelief. The film often prioritizes spectacle over deeper character development. As a result, some emotional beats feel rushed or underdeveloped. If you’re not a fan of Bay’s specific brand of action, the ‘Bayhem’ might simply be too much.
Our Final Verdict and Review Score
So, should you watch Ambulance? If you’re in the mood for an adrenaline-fueled escape, absolutely. The film delivers exactly what you expect from a Michael Bay movie: an unapologetically loud and flashy experience. While it has flaws, such as its over-the-top execution and narrative stretches, it largely succeeds as an entertaining thriller. The strong lead performances and relentless action keep you glued to the screen, making it a fantastic choice for those who love their action movies loud and proud.
Critical reception for Ambulance was mixed, with many praising the action while pointing out its excesses [1]. In contrast, audience reception was generally more favorable [1].
Our breakdown for the Ambulance (2022) movie review:
- Action: 5/5
- Performances: 4/5
- Story: 3/5
- Overall Entertainment: 4/5
IWatchMovies Blog Score: 7.5/10 – A high-octane, chaotic blast that delivers on its promise, making it a great choice for action enthusiasts.
Who stars in the Ambulance movie cast?
The Ambulance movie cast features a trio of exceptional talents assembled by director Michael Bay. These actors drive the high-octane narrative forward, bringing significant depth to the intense thriller. Here’s a closer look at who stars in this action-packed film.
Jake Gyllenhaal as Danny Sharp
Jake Gyllenhaal takes on the role of Danny Sharp, Will’s adoptive brother and a career criminal with a flair for the dramatic. Gyllenhaal portrays him as a charismatic yet ruthless leader, and his performance adds a complex layer to the film by revealing both his cunning and his vulnerability.
Known for his diverse roles in critically acclaimed films, Gyllenhaal’s notable works include Donnie Darko, Brokeback Mountain, and Nightcrawler [2]. His ability to embody intense characters is on full display here, as he masterfully balances Danny’s villainous and sympathetic aspects.
Yahya Abdul-Mateen II as Will Sharp
Starring opposite Gyllenhaal is Yahya Abdul-Mateen II as Will Sharp, a decorated veteran who joins Danny’s bank heist out of desperation for money to cover his wife’s medical treatment. Abdul-Mateen II delivers a powerful performance, effectively conveying Will’s moral struggle and deep love for his family.
Yahya Abdul-Mateen II has quickly risen to prominence, earning an Emmy for his role in HBO’s Watchmen [3]. Additionally, he has appeared in films like Candyman and Aquaman [4]. His portrayal grounds the film’s frantic pace with genuine human emotion.
Eiza González as Cam Thompson
The third primary cast member is Eiza González as Cam Thompson, an EMT taken hostage during the getaway. Inside the hijacked ambulance, her medical skills become crucial to survival. González brings a sharp intelligence and resilience to the character, portraying her not as a damsel in distress but as an active participant in the unfolding chaos.
González has built a strong career in action films, with notable credits including Baby Driver, Godzilla vs. Kong, and Hobbs & Shaw [5]. In Ambulance, her performance is both physically and emotionally demanding as she navigates intense medical emergencies while withstanding the constant pressure of the chase.
Key Supporting Cast Members
Beyond the central trio, several talented actors fill out the Ambulance movie cast. Their performances add significant depth and tension, contributing to the film’s unfolding drama.
- Garret Dillahunt portrays Captain Monroe, a police captain involved in the chase.
- Keir O’Donnell plays Agent Anson Clark, an FBI agent specializing in hostage negotiations.
- Jackson White appears as Officer Zach, a rookie police officer caught up in the events.
- Olivia Stambouliah plays Lieutenant Dzaghig, another key figure in law enforcement.
- Moses Ingram has a role as Amy Sharp, Will’s wife.
This ensemble helps to flesh out the world of the movie Ambulance, ensuring that every role, big or small, impacts the story. Their combined efforts are crucial in making the Ambulance film 2022 a memorable cinematic experience.
What happens at the end of the movie Ambulance? (Spoilers)
Buckle up, movie buffs! Michael Bay’s Ambulance culminates in an incredibly intense and chaotic crescendo. Following a relentless, city-spanning chase, the climax is a true Bay-style spectacle, packed with both explosive action and unexpected emotional beats. It’s a wild ride right to the very end.
The Final Chase and Confrontation
The final chase, a highlight of the Ambulance film 2022, reaches its climax at the Port of Los Angeles. Here, the stolen ambulance—carrying brothers Will and Danny Sharp, injured Officer Zach, and paramedic Cam Thompson—is finally cornered by a massive law enforcement presence.
- Law enforcement, led by Captain Monroe (Garret Dillahunt) and Agent Anson Clark (Keir O’Donnell), establishes a tight perimeter around the port.
- A desperate plan to swap ambulances fails when it’s revealed most of Danny’s crew are already dead.
- Out of options, the brothers drive directly into the police blockade, triggering a massive shootout.
Danny Sharp’s Demise
In a last-ditch effort, Danny (Jake Gyllenhaal) tries to take down as many officers as possible, but his reckless actions lead to a tragic end. The scene’s intensity underscores the Ambulance movie review consensus about the film’s relentless pace.
- Danny is severely wounded during the gunfight and confronts Will (Yahya Abdul-Mateen II), who tries to reason with him.
- When Danny points his gun at Will, Cam (Eiza González) makes a split-second decision to shoot Danny, saving Will.
- Mortally wounded, Danny Sharp dies, letting out a final, guttural noise as he falls.
Will Sharp’s Fate
Unlike his brother, Will’s motive for the robbery was to get money for his wife’s surgery. Consequently, his fate is less dire than Danny’s, though he still must face the consequences of his actions.
- Immediately after the shootout, Will is arrested for his role in the bank robbery and chase.
- He is taken into custody, and while his sentence is not explicitly shown, it is implied he will serve significant prison time.
Cam’s Heroism and the Aftermath
Paramedic Cam Thompson, who began as a reluctant hostage, proves her bravery and medical expertise throughout the ordeal. Her decisive actions are pivotal to the ending of the movie Ambulance.
- Cam successfully saves Officer Zach (Jackson White) by performing complex surgery on him inside the moving ambulance.
- Overcoming her aversion to emotional attachment, she shows genuine concern for Zach’s well-being.
- In the aftermath, Cam secretly delivers a portion of the stolen money to Will’s wife, ensuring she can get her life-saving surgery.
The Movie’s Resolution
The ending ties up the main plotlines, offering a bittersweet conclusion for the surviving characters. It also reinforces the core themes of family, sacrifice, and unexpected heroism that run through the Ambulance movie 2022 narrative.
- Thanks to Cam’s efforts, Officer Zach makes a full recovery.
- Will’s wife receives the money needed for her surgery, securing her health.
- Having faced death and saved lives, Cam appears to rediscover her sense of purpose and humanity.
While not a traditionally “happy” ending, the film concludes with a clear sense of justice and resolution. Ultimately, the Ambulance movie offers a powerful reminder that even in the most chaotic situations, humanity can shine through.
Why did the movie Ambulance flop?
Box Office Numbers vs. Budget
The financial journey of the movie Ambulance is a key indicator of its overall performance. Despite its high-octane action, the film struggled to find its footing at the box office. While director Michael Bay’s signature style usually guarantees a certain level of commercial success, that wasn’t the case for Ambulance (2022).
The film had a reported production budget of around $40 million [6]. This amount, however, does not include the significant costs of marketing and distribution. As a rule of thumb, a movie needs to earn at least double its production budget to break even. Unfortunately, the movie Ambulance fell well short of this benchmark.
Its worldwide box office gross reached only approximately $51.3 million [7]. This figure makes the ambulance film a clear financial disappointment, and it is therefore widely considered a box office flop. Poor timing, limited marketing reach, and a competitive release schedule likely contributed to its underperformance.
Critical Reception vs. Audience Scores
A film’s financial outcome doesn’t always tell the full story of its quality, as critical opinions and audience reactions can diverge significantly. This was certainly the case for Michael Bay’s Ambulance.
Critical Reception
Professional film critics offered mixed opinions. While many acknowledged the film’s technical prowess and relentless pace, others found its plot thin and its signature “Bayhem” overwhelming. For example, the Ambulance movie review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes shows a “Fresh” rating of 68% [1]. Similarly, Metacritic, which assigns a weighted average score, rated it 55 out of 100, indicating generally mixed or average reviews [8]. Common points of praise included the practical stunts and strong lead performances, while criticism was often aimed at the excessive length and repetitive action.
Audience Scores
In contrast, general audiences embraced the movie Ambulance with more enthusiasm. Viewers often appreciate action-packed thrillers without the stringent analysis of professional critics. The audience score on Rotten Tomatoes stands at a much higher 87%, suggesting a strong positive reaction from moviegoers [1]. Furthermore, CinemaScore, which surveys opening night audiences, gave the ambulance film an impressive “A-” grade—a strong indicator of viewer satisfaction and positive word-of-mouth [9].
Ultimately, while critics were somewhat divided, audiences largely enjoyed the ride. This discrepancy highlights a common trend for action films, where critics often look for more than just explosions, while audiences are happy with a pure adrenaline rush. Despite this positive audience feedback, however, it wasn’t enough to save Ambulance from its box office struggles.
Where is the movie Ambulance streaming?
Subscription Streaming
Eager to watch the relentless action of Michael Bay’s Ambulance (2022)? Starring Jake Gyllenhaal and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, this high-octane thriller is available on a few excellent platforms. Here’s a breakdown of where you can stream it.
Currently, the primary subscription service for the Ambulance movie is:
- Peacock Premium: As a Universal Pictures release, Ambulance (2022) typically has its exclusive streaming home on Peacock. A subscription allows you to watch the full movie. [10]
Digital Rental and Purchase Options
If you prefer to own a digital copy or rent the Ambulance film, it is widely available on most video-on-demand (VOD) services. This option gives you the flexibility to watch without a monthly subscription.
You can typically find the film for rent or purchase on platforms like:
- Amazon Prime Video: Rent or purchase in SD, HD, or 4K UHD.
- Apple TV (iTunes): Available to buy or rent.
- Google Play/YouTube Movies: Rent or purchase options are available.
- Vudu: Offers both rental and purchase options for the Ambulance movie 2022.
- Microsoft Store: Also available for rent and purchase.
Keeping Up with Availability
Streaming rights for movies like Ambulance (2022) can change over time. Because availability may shift, we recommend double-checking your preferred platform before renting, buying, or subscribing. We work to keep this information current on our related Ambulance movie review pages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ambulance on Netflix worth watching?
Although the Ambulance movie (2022) is not on Netflix, it is worth seeking out for fans of high-octane action and intense thrillers. As a Michael Bay film, it delivers his signature style with relentless car chases, explosive set pieces, and a frantic pace from start to finish.
The movie features gripping performances from its stars, Jake Gyllenhaal and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, who play brothers caught in a desperate situation. Eiza González also shines as a dedicated paramedic. If you appreciate a film with fantastic practical effects and dynamic cinematography that keeps you on the edge of your seat, then Ambulance is a must-watch. It’s a full-throttle cinematic experience that rarely lets up.
Why is the movie Ambulance rated R?
The Ambulance movie received an R rating from the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA). This rating is due to content that is restricted for younger viewers, specifically for these reasons:
- Strong Violence: The movie features frequent and intense sequences of violence, including extensive shootouts, car crashes, and physical altercations.
- Bloody Images: There are graphic depictions of injuries and blood. Given that a key setting is inside the ambulance, some scenes involve surgical procedures under duress.
- Pervasive Language: The dialogue consistently features strong, coarse language that reflects the high-stress circumstances the characters face.
These elements create the film’s gritty and mature tone, making it unsuitable for younger audiences [11]. To achieve a visceral and realistic portrayal of a chaotic situation, the Michael Bay thriller embraces these adult themes.
Does Ambulance have a happy ending?
The ending of the Ambulance movie is best described as bittersweet rather than purely happy, offering a complex resolution for its main characters.
- One protagonist, Danny Sharp (Jake Gyllenhaal), meets a tragic and fatal end.
- His brother, Will Sharp (Yahya Abdul-Mateen II), survives the ordeal but faces serious legal consequences for his actions, leaving his future uncertain.
- Paramedic Cam Thompson (Eiza González) also survives and successfully saves a life under incredible pressure, keeping her professional integrity intact.
Ultimately, while key characters survive, the film does not shy away from the severe repercussions of their choices. The immediate conflict is resolved, but the lasting impact on the characters’ futures prevents the ending from being a joyful one.
Is the Ambulance movie based on a true story?
No, the Ambulance movie (2022) directed by Michael Bay is a work of fiction and not based on a true story. It is, however, a remake of an earlier film.
The plot was adapted from the 2005 Danish film Ambulancen (The Ambulance), directed by Laurits Munch-Petersen [12].
Both versions share the same core premise: two brothers hijack an ambulance after a failed bank robbery. Michael Bay took this concept and infused it with his characteristic action, speed, and large-scale spectacle. While the situation is designed to feel intensely real, the narrative is a fictional creation for thrilling cinematic entertainment.
Sources
- https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/ambulance_2022
- https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0350453/
- https://www.emmys.com/bios/yahya-abdul-mateen-ii
- https://www.imdb.com/name/nm6087968/
- https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2673324/
- https://deadline.com/2022/03/the-batman-international-box-office-weekend-ambulance-sonic-the-hedgehog-2-1234994270/
- https://www.boxofficemojo.com/release/rl1178652673/
- https://www.metacritic.com/movie/ambulance/
- https://www.cinemascore.com/movies/ambulance
- https://www.peacocktv.com/watch/film/ambulance/9950541740924976112
- https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/ambulance-2022
- https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0437452/
