The mindless action film that actually entertains

Rating: 8/10 (5 August 2005)

Accept The Transporter for what it is and then the rest is just uphill from there. The Transporter is this European film that is exactly the kind of film that I had been looking for: it is no question a truly mindless action flick with a lot of action and also a ton of stunts, and very little plot to weave it in together. Who needs a plot anyway? Despite being a bomb at the United States box office, it gained enough popularity over a small cult following to garnish a sequel. And if there is a movie that deserves a sequel, it should be this one. Not enough people gave Jason Statham a chance years ago, and maybe this time the American public gets to see how good he really is.
This fast-paced film is about a man who gets paid to move stuff around, and he never questions what it is and who it is going to, he is simply used as a transport. Retied mercenary, suddenly Frank Martin grows a heart when his next transfer is actually an Asian female woman. After breaking one of the rules (opening the package) disaster erupts, and now it is up to him to end all the chaos. Yes, the plot sounds a bit on the uncreative end, but guess what, there is only one reason to see this movie, and it is for the action.
The Transporter has more action than most American films out today, and this movie happens to be only 92 minutes long. The movie opens with a massive chase sequence, and the movie ends with a massive chase/action sequence that despite it resembling Raiders of the Lost Ark, it still keeps you on the edge of your seat until the sequence is finished. In between the two big scenes are several more fights here and there that were well choreographed and almost perfectly executed. And unlike most other action movies like The Bourne Supremacy, the action isn't so in-your-face that you have no idea what is going on, the camera is far away enough from the subjects that it allows you to see everything that is happening, and also at times, slows down so you can catch your breath and be able to realize what had just happened. The acting is certainly not Oscar-caliber, but it gets the job done. Jason Statham has plenty of potential in becoming the next big action star, as long as the United States gives him a chance. Remember it took Jackie Chan over a decade before finally coming out with a movie that American audiences went to see, which was Rumble in the Bronx. Oh, before I forget, the soundtrack to the movie was awesome.
Bottom Line: I use Jackie Chan as an example for one reason alone, because Jackie Chan and Jason Statham are both stars of two of among the most underrated and underapprieciated action films in a very long time. Just like Rumble in the Bronx, The Transporter has a weak plot, but is totally made up for with the insane amount of action and kung-fu that makes this film a perfect summer popcorn flick. I personally find this film very entertaining, and get over the fact that it received very little attention and give it a chance, I am sure you will like it. The Transporter: Finally, the mindless action flick that does not try too hard to have a decent plot.
Score: 9/10