As a connoisseur of action films and a lover of all things cinematic, I have to say that the 2000s was indeed the golden era for Jason Statham. The man has not only honed his craft as an actor but also carved out a unique niche for himself in the world of action cinema.
In the whirlwind of the 2000s, I, a humble fan, can confidently say that Jason Statham truly found his stride. Over the course of this dynamic decade, he graced us with an impressive 19 movies, solidifying himself as a formidable force in Hollywood’s action realm. His unique blend of rugged good looks and raw fighting prowess made him an instant sensation, but it was his commitment to delivering emotionally rich and layered characters that truly set him apart. He didn’t just dominate the action genre; he redefined it.
In 1998, Statham first appeared in “Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels.” However, it was during the 2000s that he truly established himself, demonstrating exceptional martial arts skills and the knack for defeating even the most ruthless villains without needing weapons. He churned out action-packed blockbusters one after another, making it seem as though every action movie in the mid-2000s had Statham on screen. From teaming up with Jet Li in “The One” to starting a franchise with “The Transporter,” his fame spread far and wide, illuminating everything he touched.
In addition to working alongside notable actors such as Chris Evans, Bruce Willis, Edward Norton, and Mark Wahlberg, as well as directors like Guy Ritchie and Paul W.S. Anderson on some unforgettable films, Jason Statham consistently delivered captivating, high-impact performances that made him a force to be reckoned with in every scene. This list ranks the 19 movies from the 2000s that catapulted Jason Statham into the echelon of the greatest action stars ever, excluding roles for which he did not receive screen credit, documentaries, or brief appearances such as Collateral.
19 In the Name of the King (2008)
In the movie “In The Name of the King,” Jason Statham portrays a contented farmer living in Stonebridge, whose peaceful life is disrupted when monstrous beings called Krugs launch a brutal assault. They kidnap his wife, and driven by revenge, the farmer embarks on a solitary mission to locate Gallian, the malevolent ruler of the Krugs.
A Disappointing Video Game Adaptation
The film titled “In the Name of the King: A Dungeon Siege Tale” underperformed both at the box office and with critics, who found the plotline “overwhelmingly displeasing,” and deemed the production values inferior. It was even compared unfavorably to the Lord of the Rings films, a comparison that didn’t flatter it. Despite this, director Uwe Boll leveraged Jason Statham’s powerful persona and remained dedicated to his portrayal in the film.
18 Turn It Up (2000)
Turn It Up marks Jason Statham’s third movie venture and his initial release during the 2010s. This gripping fusion of hood action, drama, and music revolves around a promising hip-hop artist named Diamond, who aspires to achieve fame in New York City’s prestigious music scene. However, before he can attain stardom, Diamond must cut ties with certain individuals and navigate away from the perils and urban lifestyle.
Throwback to Statham’s Origins
In the film, Jason Statham assumes a less prominent role as the tough-talking Mr. B, a gangster. Despite this, he makes an impact through his genuine charisma and physical presence. Amidst stars like Pras and Ja Rule, he kept pace by embodying the movie’s lively spirit and contributing to its storyline by preserving the suspense and mystery.
17 Ghosts of Mars (2001)
With its title clearly hinting at what’s to come, “Ghosts of Mars” presents a chilling sci-fi thriller backdrop, set in 2176 where Mars mirrors Earth not just visually but also atmospherically. Police Officer Melanie Ballard, Sergeant Jericho Butler, and their team are on a journey to a mining outpost when they stumble upon an unsettling truth: Mars is teeming with dangerous spirits possessing the inhabitants.
Statham’s Early Star Power
From a cinephile’s perspective, I wasn’t expecting much from this John Carpenter film, given its initial projections. However, it surpassed my expectations, showcasing Carpenter’s unique ability to blend supernatural elements seamlessly into an action narrative while using chilling imagery, fierce battles, and thrilling entertainment to create a truly memorable experience. As for Statham, his character as the fearless officer who doesn’t shy away from risky situations is powerfully portrayed through his intense performance.
16 The One (2001)
In simpler terms, unlike the Marvel films, The One presents a unique storyline featuring Gabriel Yulaw, a renegade character who journeys through numerous alternate dimensions in search of and to eliminate other incarnations of himself for ultimate mystical dominance. Jason Statham portrays Evan Funsch, an agent from the MultiVerse Authority, whose mission is to apprehend Yulaw.
Statham Goes Multiversal
In “The One,” Jet Li shares leadership in a powerful and varied performance, while Jason Statham delivers an impressive act and demonstrates his fighting abilities. The film, directed by James Wong, explores the concept of multiple universes and interdimensional travel, adding suspense through metaphysical action and nail-biting plot twists that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
15 Transporter 3 (2008)
In the thrilling conclusion of the Transporter trilogy, I step back into the shoes of Frank Martin – the masterful driver with an uncanny knack for transporting high-value goods for enigmatic clients. This time around, I’m in France, stepping up to fill the void left by a fallen comrade who met his end while delivering a priceless package. Although my work may seem routine, the risks are astronomical, and I must evade relentless mercenaries and clandestine government operatives to ensure safe delivery of this invaluable cargo.
Delivers Non-Stop Thrills
Statham effortlessly slipped back into Frank’s cool and classy role, and under director Olivier Megaton’s precise vision, the movie is infused with even more action and adventure. The locations and high-octane themes, the car chases and slick fight scenes – they were all enough to keep fans of the franchise entertained. But overall, the movie took a few steps down from its predecessors.
14 Revolver (2005)
In the movie titled “Revolver“, Jason Statham plays the character of Jake Green, a seemingly ordinary individual who served seven years in solitary confinement for a crime he didn’t perpetrate. Upon his release, he joins forces with his brother and sets foot in Dorothy Macha’s casino. There, Green outsmarts Macha’s chosen player, hinting at the potential collapse of his business empire. As events unfold, Jake stands firm against Macha, risking everything in a decisive battle.
An Absorbing Noir Thriller
In Jason Statham’s second project with Guy Ritchie, following “Snatch”, they team up again for “Revolver”. This film is filled with deceptions, explorations of destiny, choreographed action scenes, and motifs of distress, all characteristic of Ritchie’s wider body of noir films focusing on the main character’s quest for justice and their fixation. Statham delivers an exceptional portrayal of his character’s intricate mindset.
13 London (2005)
The movie titled London is a romantic drama, helmed by director Hunter Richards. It features Chris Evans, Jason Statham, and Jessica Biel in prominent roles. In this story, Evans portrays Syd, a former drug addict who discovers that his ex-girlfriend London is having a farewell bash before she departs for California with her new partner. Impulsively, Syd chooses to crash the party, accompanied by Bateman – the banker who facilitates the drugs to Syd on behalf of the dealer.
Jason Statham and Chris Evans Collaborate
In the film “London“, Evans plays the lead character, but Jason Statham significantly contributes to the storyline as well. The narrative takes a wild, drug-infused turn in Statham’s presence, affecting both his and Evans’ characters. Hunter Richards directs the movie with an unyielding speed, giving ample opportunity for the actors to display their versatility, although this results in a film that is deeply flawed.
12 War (2007)
In a fashion reminiscent of “The One”, “War” brings together Jet Li and Jason Statham for another pulse-pounding action adventure. Making his directorial debut is Philip G. Atwell, as we delve into the story of FBI agent John Crawford who tragically loses his partner Tom Lone in a gunfight with Japanese yakuza due to a rogue former CIA assassin named Rogue. Driven by revenge, Crawford embarks on a relentless pursuit to track down Rogue, who was believed to be dead but mysteriously reappeared three years later.
Statham and Jet Li Reunite
In this rephrased version: Jet Li, a well-known martial arts star, takes on the villain’s role opposite Jason Statham. Statham delivers an action-packed performance that turns War into a thrilling, explosive ride. The duo has a strong on-screen chemistry, keeping viewers engaged throughout the storyline. The exceptional action sequences, orchestrated by Corey Yuen, add to the tension and excitement. Despite being filled with familiar tropes, it’s still worth watching.
11 Transporter 2 (2005)
In my perspective, watching Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, I found myself once again drawn into the world of Frank Martin, a man who thought he’d left his past as a transporter behind. However, an unexpected job offer as a bodyguard for a politician’s son thrust him back into the thick of things. His mission: shield the boy from a ruthless drug cartel. But when the boy is abducted by these criminals, Frank embarks on a high-stakes race-against-time rescue operation, all while attempting to clear his name and prove his innocence in this dangerous predicament.
Statham Carries the Intriguing Sequel
As Jason Statham cranks up the engine for another exhilarating installment of the series, he skillfully blends his dynamic and intense portrayal with the gentler side he shows while safeguarding a child. Louis Leterrier expertly guides the movie, ensuring each action scene, fight, and chase is nothing short of thrilling.
10 Chaos (2005)
A once-respected detective named Jason York finds himself on the wrong side of the law, joining forces with four other criminals in an audacious bank heist. His unique condition is that his former partner, Detective Quentin Conners, handles the negotiations. In a twist of events, Conners partners up with the fresh-out-of-academy Shane Dekker, and over time, they manage to outsmart York, forming an unexpected friendship along the way.
Redefines Heist Thrillers
Despite lacking flashy stunts or high-octane gunfights, Chaos offers an enjoyable and gripping viewing experience for fans of the action thriller genre, especially those who appreciate underrated films. Starring Jason Statham alongside Ryan Phillippe as a rookie detective, the movie sets them against Wesley Snipes in the role of the antagonist. The film’s direction by Tony Giglio is raw and gritty yet intense and malicious. By delivering powerful performances, the actors transform a routine heist story into an action-packed vehicle that solidifies their positions as industry stalwarts.
9 Crank: High Voltage (2009)
Crank: High Voltage, a follow-up to the 2006 film, is one of those action movies featuring an outlandish storyline but expertly carried out. The protagonist, Chev Chelios, is still grappling with the near-fatal fall that left him hanging by a thread, only to be revived by Chinese physicians who transplant an artificial heart into him, enabling him to seek thrills again. However, there’s a twist: Chev’s original heart is in enemy hands, and the new one requires recharging every hour.
Statham Returns as the Unhinged Assassin
In a fresh take, Statham once again immerses himself in the intense character of Chev, resulting in captivating performances. This time, the passionate and unorthodox personality earns acclaim through his various methods to recharge his heart’s battery – from swiping jumper cables to engaging in action on a racetrack. The film is a blend of thrilling excitement and humor, as its inventive stunts and absurd plot turns keep the momentum flowing consistently.
8 Death Race (2008)
In a world characterized by economic ruin within the United States and alarmingly high crime rates that have escalated violent prison culture, the film Death Race unfolds. The narrative follows Jensen Ames, a blue-collar worker who is falsely accused of murder and subsequently incarcerated on Terminal Island. Faced with two options – to participate as a contestant in a lethal road race on television that’s garnering immense popularity as the enigmatic newcomer named Frankenstein, or endure a slow decay within the prison system – Jensen must make a difficult decision.
Jason Statham Embraces the Mayhem
Often regarded as a modern reinterpretation of the 1975 film named “Death Race 2000“, this high-octane thriller depicts a dystopian society where excessive violence and vehicular destruction serve as forms of amusement. The witty critique is spot on, as director Paul W.S. Anderson masterfully plunges every sequence into a sea of unbridled chaos. Statham takes center stage as Jensen, displaying his trademark intensity and vehicle-wielding prowess with captivating flair.
7 Mean Machine (2001)
Under Barry Skolnick’s guidance, the novel Mean Machine serves as a literary rendition of the 1974 American film, The Longest Yard. The story revolves around former football player Danny Meehan, whose glory days as a well-known and admired sportsman are cut short when he gets into a physical altercation with the police, resulting in his three-year prison sentence. While incarcerated, Danny mobilizes a group of fellow prisoners and orchestrates a confrontation against the cruel guards through a football match.
Establishes Statham as an Action Star
Known for its humorous and creative twist on the initial plot, Mean Machine is an engagingly dark comedy sports film that allows actors to exhibit rough and tumble football play. Vinnie Jones headlines the movie as Danny, with Jason Statham delivering a standout performance as Monk, a ruthless and brutal inmate who lends his assistance to Danny in securing his anticipated victory.
6 The Transporter (2002)
Under the direction of Corey Yuen and Louis Leterrier, The Transporter marks the beginning of an immensely popular action series. It was this film that introduced Jason Statham as the renowned character Frank Martin, a former mercenary turned freelance transportation specialist who caters to clients worldwide. In the narrative, his inaugural assignment involves transporting a cryptic cargo; however, things quickly escalate, drawing Frank into a complex human trafficking scheme, where he attempts to rescue the endangered girl.
A Dynamic Start to the 2000s
In the action genre, The Transporter marked a breakout role for Jason Statham. Remarkably, he had already mastered the calm professionalism required to portray a secret agent/rescuer/anti-hero. He infused the character with a mysterious charm, maintained a hardened exterior for the majority of the time, yet revealed glimpses of Frank’s human side through small cracks. The thrilling car chases, impressive stunts, and exceptional direction led to two sequels and propelled Statham into global fandom.
5 Cellular (2004)
The narrative unfolds with a science teacher, Jessica Martin, unexpectedly abducted. In her desperate attempt for aid, she dials an unknown number on her mobile phone. The person answering, Ryan, initially suspects a joke, but ultimately decides to contact the authorities. As his cellphone battery dwindles, resourceful Ryan takes charge and embarks on a mission to rescue the unidentified voice on the line.
Statham Stuns in the Old-School Thriller
The movie “Cellular” garnered a mix of opinions from critics, with some finding its concept overly gimmicky while others lauded it as an electrifying chase-thriller. Nevertheless, one point that can’t be disputed is Jason Statham’s portrayal in this film as his most heroic character of the 2000s. As the resourceful Ryan, he demonstrates a range of emotions, from deep and complex to light and subtle, as he dives into a game of cat-and-mouse with unwavering determination to come out victorious. The performances by stars like Chris Evans and William H. Macy add depth and intensity to the suspense and viewer engagement.
4 Crank (2006)
Crank is an over-the-top action film directed by Mark Neveldine and Brian Taylor. The movie stars Jason Statham as Chev Chelios, a tough hitman from Los Angeles who unexpectedly finds himself near death after being drugged with a mysterious poison one morning. To stay alive, he needs to maintain his adrenaline levels constantly high. Consequently, Chev embarks on a wild city-wide spree in search of those responsible for the attack.
Delivers Strong Doses of Adrenaline
Reflecting on it, the film “Crank” presents an implausible and amusing concept at first glance. However, it’s Jason Statham’s portrayal of the reckless and mischievous protagonist that truly elevates the movie. Watching him, a man ready to go to any lengths to maintain his adrenaline rush, is both entertaining and astonishing. The plot, centered around finding answers, effectively keeps viewers hooked from beginning to end.
3 The Italian Job (2003)
One of the greatest heist films ever made, famously known as “The Italian Job“, narrates the tale of John Bridger and his skilled gang of burglars who successfully execute a lifetime robbery in Venice. However, their triumph is short-lived as they lose the valuable gold they had stolen when one team member, Steve, betrays them, leading to John’s demise. In the aftermath, Charlie, the mastermind of the group, manages to persuade John’s daughter, Stella, who shares her father’s knack for cracking safes, to join the team and seek retribution against Steve.
A Smooth and Entertaining Crime Caper
The movie titled “The Italian Job” proved to be a huge financial triumph, earning over $176 million globally while only costing $60 million to produce. Critics praised it for offering a fun and contemporary spin on the 1969 heist film original. The film boasted an impressive ensemble cast, featuring big names like Mark Wahlberg, Charlize Theron, Edward Norton, Seth Green, Mos Def, and Donald Sutherland. Jason Statham portrayed Handsome Rob, the skilled driver of the team.
2 The Bank Job (2008)
A less-famous yet gripping heist movie featuring Jason Statham, titled “The Bank Job“, transports you to 1970s London. In this tale, a struggling car dealer named Terry Leather finds himself in a tight spot financially. A mysterious phone call hints at a bank robbery opportunity, and Terry believes he’s in for the big league heist. After walking away with a substantial sum of money without any harm, Terry remains oblivious to the fact that this job had more political implications than he initially thought.
Takes You on a Wild Ride
Under the guidance of director Roger Donaldson, the film titled “The Bank Job” is inspired by the true events of the 1971 heist on Lloyds Bank safety deposit boxes located in Baker Street. This thrilling tale unfolds with a series of interconnected incidents that brim with mystery and high personal risks, keeping viewers hooked until the very last moment. Statham brought depth and humor to his portrayal of the character Terry, while also adding an element of authenticity and maturity to the narrative. His performance in this film showcased his versatility as a dramatic actor.
1 Snatch (2000)
Without a doubt, the standout Jason Statham film from the 2000s is none other than “Snatch.” Set within London’s gritty criminal landscape, this movie follows both seasoned criminals and green-behind-the-ears thieves in their relentless pursuit of a stolen diamond. Simultaneously, unauthorized boxing impresarios, including Turkish (played by Statham), are scrambling to secure a victor for an upcoming bout. When the tales of the stolen gem and the boxing match unexpectedly collide, Turkish finds himself in hot water with the ruthless Brick Top. As fate would have it, a chain of unfortunate incidents ensues.
Statham Breaks Out in Guy Ritchie Classic
Kicking off the era with his quick-witted humor, knack for action, and fast-paced demeanor, Jason Statham ascended to the status of an action powerhouse. He was joined by Hollywood icons such as Brad Pitt and Benicio Del Toro, who were equally clever and imposing. Under Guy Ritchie’s masterful guidance, the intricate network of characters and gritty storyline made Snatch the epitome of a crime heist film.
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2024-11-10 03:03