Brutal, Escapist Fun

Rating: 8/10 (14 August 2010)

This is a mostly fast paced, lively action film starring Sylvester Stallone as Barney, who leads a group of mercenaries of the movie title. Mostly, this film is about them being hired by the CIA to kill General Garces, the military dictator of the island of Vilena. However, the general is controlled by a rogue CIA agent, played by Eric Roberts, and the Expendables eventually go there to liberate the island and the general's daughter Sandra. There are cameos in the film, including a scene with Stallone, Bruce Willis and Arnold Schwarzenegger, wherein the movie's best one liner is delivered (watch for it). Also part of the film is Mickey Rourke, the owner of the tattoo parlor where the group meet to discuss their next jobs. Some people have spoken of how little we see Arnold and Bruce, and that there is no scene together with Rourke and Roberts (remember "The Pope Of Greenwich Village"?), but these criticisms are not valid. The movie is about the Expendables, and that is the correct focus of the film. The movie is excessively violent at times, but that is expected. Watch this film on a big screen, there are a few moments that will blow you away (literally). I like the direction by Sly, its tight and focused on the action. It correctly makes the mayhem seem edgy and purposeful. This is for action lovers, not for the faint of heart. It is especially recommended for anyone who grew up on those great 80's action films. Its a bit nostalgic for that reason. Welcome back to the genre.