Red is a spy thriller which combines intrigue, action and humour to keep the viewers glued to their seats. Former CIA agent Frank Moses (Bruce Willis) is enjoying his well-earned retirement. His world is suddenly turned upside down when he narrowly escapes an attempt on his life.
Moses realises that Sarah Roses (Mary-Louise Parker), a young woman he is romantically interested in, could also be in serious danger.
To protect Roses, Moses assembles his former team of highly skilled CIA agents: Joe Matheson (Morgan Freeman), Marvin Boggs (John Malkovich) and Victoria (Helen Mirren). The team sneaks into CIA headquarters, where they uncover a great conspiracy.
The movie is based on the graphic novel of the same name by Warren Ellis and Cully Hamner. It was published by WildStorm Productions, a sub-division of DC Comics, as a three-issue mini-series from 2003 to 2004. It was later reissued as a single book. 'I loved the book instantly,' said Gregory Noveck, senior vice-president of creative affairs at DC Comics. 'Red was one of those titles that I had targeted very early on after joining the company.'
In January, the crew began shooting the film in Toronto during a typically frosty Canadian winter. They later moved to New Orleans in the US.
The filmmakers selected the two locations because of the 'extremely diverse looks and locales,' co-producer Lorenzo di Bonaventura said. 'Toronto and New Orleans were the perfect combination to film in because this movie is somewhat of a travelogue.'