Shaft (2019) – A Blend of Action

 Shaft (2019) – A Blend of Action

The 2019 version of Shaft is a stylish, action-packed reboot-slash-sequel that brings together three generations of the Shaft family. Directed by Tim Story, the film stars Samuel L. Jackson as the iconic John Shaft II, who teams up with his estranged son, JJ Shaft (Jessie T. Usher), a cyber-security expert and FBI analyst, to solve a murder mystery in Harlem.

The plot kicks off when JJ’s childhood friend dies under suspicious circumstances. Out of his depth in the gritty world of street justice, JJ turns to his legendary father for help. What follows is a collision of old-school swagger and modern sensibilities. Jackson’s Shaft is all leather coats, brash attitude, and punch-first logic, while JJ is more analytical and tech-savvy. This contrast drives much of the film’s humor and heart.

The film also brings in Richard Roundtree—the original Shaft from the 1971 classic—for a nostalgic and satisfying multigenerational team-up. Together, the three Shafts offer a dynamic mix of action and banter.

Shaft (2019) plays with the idea of masculinity, fatherhood, and what it means to be tough in different eras. While some jokes feel dated or over-the-top, the chemistry between the leads keeps the energy high. The film is unapologetically bold, filled with explosive action sequences, sharp one-liners, and a funky soundtrack that honors the series' roots.

Though critics were divided on its tone, Shaft delivers a fun ride for fans of the franchise and newcomers alike. It may not revolutionize action comedies, but it offers solid entertainment, bridging generational gaps with attitude and style. Jackson, as always, is effortlessly cool—making sure Shaft’s legacy remains as sharp as ever.