The Foreigner could've used less of Brosnan's bombast, frankly, and more of the mysterious Mr. Quan, but this dark-edged little razor blade of a film is ultimately a satisfying comeback for Chan. More, please.

The scene in which Chan beats up David Pearse and Michael McElhatton through three floors of a Belfast B&B in itself justifies your attention.

Martin Campbell directed this twisty, bracing political thriller, giving Chan room to display his dramatic ability and letting Brosnan flesh out a vigorous, complex character who's surrounded by frenemies with secrets of their own.

Chan is magnificent as the ageing, surly Quan, clearly feeling every knock he takes, while Pierce Brosnan turns in one of best performances as a former IRA man who is now deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland.