Good acting and athletic direction let you forgive that none of this story is pippin’ hot fresh out of the oven. Sometimes you just want straightforward comfort food, and that’s what you’ll get along with a game Perlman.

Ron Perlman and Emma Ho give the best they can with what they’re working with. This is not an acting issue, but without a story or direction as filler, it’s not enough to fill the screen with meaningful stares and monosyllabic grunts.

As summer winds down, and you are overwhelmed by all of the “Barbieheimer” social media posts, I recommend taking the time to seek out “The Baker.” It “rises” to the occasion.

This thoroughly generic action thriller borrows its familiar elements from many sources, but the likable cast help keep things on track with their collective charm and charisma.