Plot holes? Of course, but who cares?

Rating: 7/10 (26 June 2003)

If you were expecting an involving, strongly emotional film during which you form a relationship with the characters, then how did you end up with this film? Sure, the characters are flat, and even the plot has some big problems. Just get your cartoon-sensibilities out and try to enjoy it!
That said, the score is somewhat enjoyable in my opinion, the camerawork is outstanding (if it doesn't bug the hell out of you which it seems to do to some people). There's not much to be said for any of the actors apart from Jason Statham, who is perfect for the part. Someone mentioned that he has the Bruce Willis look going on, which is true, while he also has that cool accent. And those are two guys who can pull off having receding hairlines without going totally skinhead and looking like a slab of meat (like Vin Diesel). If you liked that look and accent in Snatch or the Italian Job you will probably like it here too. In my opinion he is a perfect action hero: cool, calm, in control, powerful, fast, and anything but annoying. Most heroes fail in one of these respects at some point during a film.
So now the important part: the action sequences. These really make up for the lack of coherence and character development. Maybe you think that nothing could make up for a lack of coherence; well obviously you're not the action type and should stay away from this film! If you can get over it, then some of the scenes are quite beautifully done, so rhythmic and well-choreographed as to look like dancing. Some of the scenes are reminiscent of Kiss of the Dragon (and even one of the villains is the same guy). That reminds my brothers and I watched it, we were many times reminded of other action movies: Ronin, Speed, Terminator 2, Lock Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, Lethal Weapon 4, The Professional, the Fast and the Furious (some of these are not surprising due to their mutual associations with Luc Besson). But while you might just think it copies these other films, it basically does many of the cooler things in these films in a borderline montage of action that leaves you with a sense of tribute to the genre rather than a copycat. Plus, it has many scenes which are extremely original. Overall, if you're into the action, this movie has some intense and spectacular scenes. If you aren't, don't see this movie so we don't have to hear you complain about it. [7/10]