War
Director: Philip G. Atwell
Cast: Jet Li, Jason Statham, John Lone
Rated: 18A
103 minutes
Expectations lowered – check. Popcorn buttered – check. Decent action flick rolling… well two out of three isn’t bad.
Now, ordinarily when a film of this caliber comes along its safe to recommend it to anyone desperate for some ‘brain off’ action. Well, this film definitely requires the removal of your brain.
Here Jet Li plays the mysterious ‘Rouge’. A phantom assassin that apparently killed Jason Statham’s partner. The plot revolves around Jet Li causing a war between two rival gangs. For a while it was a little confusing with many Asian gangsters being introduced and subsequently killed without much reasoning. However, it soon becomes apparent that there is no need to pay attention to the plot and just watch the action. This movie is actually very blood-splattery violent with an occasional booby, swear word, and homophobic joke thrown in for good measure.
Oh lordy is the writing bad, and the acting isn’t much better. The plot seems more concerned with showing off fancy sunglasses and cars then any semblance of story line. But I hear you say “it’s an action flick, right?” Yes, but any good will the abundant senseless violence creates is utterly destroyed with perhaps the weakest twist ending ever. And that’s saying a lot in this genre.
Until further notice avoid Jason Statham at all costs. His career began with promise but now he seems to be a red flag for appalling action films.
If you need an action movie fix go see Bourne Ultimatum, twice if need be.