‘Rogue Elements: A Ryan Drake Story’ Short Film Review

This short film debuted in 2024.

Based on the Ryan Drake novels by Will Jordan, Rogue Elements: A Ryan Drake Story is a short film used as a proof of concept for a television series. It was released in 2024 and was directed by Travis Grant.

CIA Agent Hastings (James Gallanders) is killed protecting an asset by European terrorist Volkov (Mike Dopud). His friend Ryan Drake (Derek Moran) decides to go on a mission to save him. When he and his team arrive, they discover that there is more going on than they first anticipated, especially when a Russian agent named Anya (Olena Medwid) enters the mix.

The plot is well crafted. I am not prepared to say that it is the best action-thriller short I have ever seen, but I definitely had a good time following Drake and his mission.

My one complaint is that the music is not mixed very well. It was very loud at times, drowning out gunfire and the voices. It was never bad enough that I had to strain to hear the dialogue, but it did feel a bit intrusive. The music itself is good, perfect for this genre, but it was a tad overpowering in various moments.

Aside from that, I had a good time. It was neat to see a project developed, in part, from a crowdfunding campaign. It is based on a book series by Will Jordan, known as The Critical Drinker, and you can tell his fans showed up to help produce it. That alone is worth mentioning.

Other than my critique about the music mixing, this was a solid short film. They did a good job of crafting the protagonists, helping you to cheer for them and waiting to see what the antagonists have planned. I enjoyed the action sequences, the production values, and the overall plot, which leaves you hooked on it as you watch. The finale has a factor you do not expect and you will not be disappointed.

Bottom line, Rogue Elements: A Ryan Drake Story is a solid short film… and dare I say “pilot”? You will have a good time watching Drake and his team taking on the bad guys in a good old-fashioned showdown.

PARENTAL CONCERNS: Violence including gore, Strong foul language, Substance abuse

FAVORITE QUOTE: Alpha, there may be a rogue element in play here.

Check out the trailer below:

What do you think? Let me know in the comments below. Tell me if there is a comic book, movie, or novel you would like me to review.