Would you prefer to be trapped in the wilderness with a man or a bear? This inquiry directed at women on TikTok in 2024 ignited a storm on social media. Numerous women opted for the bear, expressing worries about rape culture and the possible danger represented by a man alone in the wild, while a bear seemed less threatening. Others were taken aback that an unknown man could be viewed as more dangerous than a wild beast. The forthcoming Netflix film Apex is poised to rekindle this discussion.

Apex, featuring Charlize Theron as Sasha, a resilient rock climber, does not include a bear. Sasha’s solo kayaking trip in the Australian wilderness is interrupted by Ben (Taron Egerton), who initially seems cordial but quickly turns into a lethal menace. The movie sets Sasha against a lunatic in a merciless wilderness, driven by violence, action, and gore, mirroring many women’s deepest anxieties.

Directed by Baltasar Kormákur, Apex opens with Sasha and her companion Tommy (Eric Bana) inside a tent on a colossal cliff. The initial segment tracks their rock climbing escapade, but calamity ensues, unveiling the film’s harsh violence. Sasha’s subsequent adventure is overshadowed by this ordeal, and the audience witnesses the high stakes involved in onscreen brutality.

Upon meeting Ben, he starts as a supportive individual, but soon uncovers his true colors, urging her to flee as he stalks her with a crossbow. This situation mirrors the Doofenshmirtz meme: if I received a nickel for each time an Academy Award-winning actress portrayed a rafter battling a deranged killer, I’d end up with two nickels. It’s an uncommon occurrence, yet it has taken place twice.

Apex boasts intense action, best experienced in a cinema. Streaming on Netflix, the breathtaking wilderness transforms into a trap for Sasha as she is chased by the antagonist. Sasha dashes through forests, rivers, and caves, enduring psychological torment from the charming criminal. Theron’s character experiences a severe beating, underscoring the peril of confusing a predator for a good Samaritan.

Taron Egerton presents a defining performance as Ben, transitioning from a kind stranger to a ruthless hunter. His depiction is mesmerizing, as Ben relishes in torturing Sasha both physically and mentally. Egerton’s vigor in the role is enthralling, rendering Ben’s actions equally frightening and exhilarating.

Apex is an unyielding, thrilling ride with Theron and Egerton showcasing their finest in a brutal confrontation. It’s a compelling experience at home, but those who forgo the theatrical experience will miss the complete effect of Kormákur’s breathtaking visuals and intense action. Apex premieres on Netflix on April 24.