Dark Asset

The nested narratives sap the relentless forward momentum needed, and the individual flashbacks are not compelling enough set-pieces on either the action or character front.

Has some narrative flaws and at times struggles to overcome its budgetary limitations but is an entertaining enough film.

With stinkers like “Deuces,” Malicious” and a Steven Seagal atrocity titled “Code of Honor” on his resume, “unsurprising” and “bad” are pretty much writer-director Michael Winnick’s brand.

“Dark Asset” opens as a traditional bruiser but wants to conclude as a brain-bleeder, and Winnick doesn’t have the budget, cast, or directorial ability to pull off this kind of involving mystery.

The minimal action is unremarkable, Mann and Mattson have no chemistry, and Robert Patrick looks justifiably embarrassed to be there.