PC: (Rotten Tomatoes, Story LTD)
Priyanka Chopra Jonas delivers a fierce, action-packed performance in the 2026 swashbuckler The Bluff, now streaming exclusively on Amazon Prime Video since its release on February 25, 2026. Directed by Frank E. Flowers and co-written by Flowers and Joe Ballarini, this R-rated adventure blends high-stakes pirate revenge with intense, bloody combat and a heartfelt family-protection storyline.
From Quiet Island Life to Ruthless Siege
Set in the 19th-century Cayman Islands, the film centers on Ercell “Bloody Mary” Bodden (Priyanka Chopra Jonas), a retired pirate who has left her violent past behind to live peacefully with her husband T.H. Bodden (Ismael Cruz Córdova), their son Isaac, and sister-in-law Elizabeth (Safia Oakley-Green). Her hard-won tranquility is destroyed when her former captain, the vengeful Captain Connor (Karl Urban), arrives with his ruthless crew to settle old scores, reclaim stolen gold, and hunt her down.
Forced to confront her history as a notorious buccaneer, Ercell unleashes her formidable skills-mastering swords, firearms, and brutal hand-to-hand combat-to defend her family and island home during a relentless, siege-like invasion. The story emphasizes a powerful “mother-bear” dynamic, as Ercell fights with ferocious determination to protect her loved ones from the bloodthirsty pirates.
Standout Cast and High-Octane Production
The ensemble features strong supporting performances from Karl Urban as the menacing yet grounded antagonist Captain Connor, Ismael Cruz Córdova, Safia Oakley-Green, Temuera Morrison, and others. Produced by AGBO, Cinestar Pictures, and Purple Pebble Pictures (Priyanka’s own production company), the film was shot with a focus on gritty realism, delivering visceral sword fights, explosive gunplay, and gory violence that echoes John Wick-style intensity in a pirate setting.
Critical Reception and Praise for Priyanka’s Star Turn
The Bluff has earned a mixed-to-positive response from critics, holding a Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer score in the mid-60s to low-70s range (around 67-68% based on early reviews from dozens of critics). Many reviewers highlight Priyanka Chopra Jonas as the film’s strongest asset, praising her physical commitment, charisma, and ability to carry the action sequences with credibility and ferocity. Descriptions call her performance “badass,” “feisty,” and the clear highlight, even as some note the plot’s formulaic elements or uneven pacing.
Audience feedback has been enthusiastic in initial reactions, with viewers appreciating the brutal thrills, straightforward revenge narrative, and fresh female-led twist on pirate adventures.
A Bold Addition to the Pirate Genre
The Bluff stands out as a modern, R-rated take on swashbuckling tales, prioritizing personal stakes, family loyalty, and raw combat over traditional treasure hunts. For fans of action thrillers, strong leading women, and pirate lore with a gritty edge, it’s a compelling watch on Prime Video-perfect for anyone craving high-energy battles and a formidable hero fighting for everything that matters. Stream it now and see Priyanka Chopra Jonas redefine pirate badassery