As a cinephile who’s been around the block a few times, I can confidently say that the journey of Jason Statham and Guy Ritchie is nothing short of captivating. Starting with Statham’s humble beginnings as a diver turned stuntman-turned-actor in “Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels,” it’s hard not to be impressed by the trajectory of their careers.
Sometimes your first work is your best. It might sound insulting — it shouldn’t, though, and doesn’t mean each subsequent project isn’t worthwhile. Many great musicians, authors, and filmmakers explode right out of the gate, having captured lightning in a bottle; it happens most often with bands, but it can also happen with actors. I’d argue that this is the case with Jason Statham, and quickly follow that assertion with the caveat that the actor has had many great movies and performances since then. But something special happened at the end of the 20th century with Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels.
Among filmmakers who have adopted a style reminiscent of Quentin Tarantino, incorporating MTV-style intensity, Guy Ritchie is widely recognized as the most exceptional. His work shares characteristics such as non-linear storytelling, heavy reliance on popular music and slow-motion, interspersed violence with humor, a vast cast with few or no clear protagonists, and dialogue that feels authentic. What sets Ritchie apart from other imitators is his organic blending of Cockney culture and a more prominent use of humor, contrasting with less nostalgic cinematic references.
Following a stint in making commercials, Guy Ritchie embarked on the production of “Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels” with a remarkable understanding and conviction about his creative direction (even though his scripts would improve; the script for this initial film was drafted on various napkins). He was determined to pursue authenticity, particularly in casting choices. For example, actor Frank Harper had spent a decade working at a butcher’s shop. Similarly, Jason Statham, who portrays Bacon in the movie, used to sell questionable goods to the public, much like his father, a street vendor. As co-star Jason Flemying stated during that period:
Approximately five minutes later, it became clear to Guy that Jason’s portrayal of the role would carry a genuine essence unmatched by any other actor. Consequently, he was chosen for the movie.
Jason Statham Went from Levi’s Jeans Ads to Guy Ritchie Movies
As a movie enthusiast, I can tell you that if you’re unfamiliar with “Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels,” it’s perfectly alright, as even those who have seen it may find its complex plot hard to decipher. This film, much like other outstanding crime dramas, is intricately woven with unexpected turns and deceitful double-crosses. The challenge lies in keeping up with the extensive ensemble of characters. In essence, the story revolves around a group of fellows who are determined to recover £500,000 that they lost in a fixed poker game. Coincidentally, they discover their neighbors’ plans to burglarize drug dealers, leading them to contemplate robbing the robbers themselves. Naturally, things escalate beyond control.
Initially, Ritchie became aware of Statham during a Levi’s Jeans commercial where he was modeling. An intriguing conversation with Ritchie, Statham, and Jason Flemying from Dog Day Film Reviews in 1999 is available, showcasing these individuals before they reached the pinnacles of their fame. Here, they reminisce about how Statham got involved in the movie, as well as his awkwardness regarding those Levi’s Jeans advertisements.
Interviewer: Jason [Statham], you used to do ads, as well. (a small laugh) Levi’s?
(They all start to laugh)
Jason Statham: Goodness gracious! If only I got a dollar each time this question was posed, I must admit, I’d find myself in a rather comfortable position financially. Could you assist me with that, please?
Jason Flemyng initially pursued a career with French Connection, but his involvement in modeling stemmed from his exceptional talent as a European highboard diver.
Jason Statham: Yeah, not muff diving.
Jason Flemyng: An agent, who specialized in sports personalities, landed the French Connection campaign. The film’s investor, also the owner of French Connection, introduced him to Guy, whom he was particularly interested in. This is when they first crossed paths, with Statham playfully holding Guy in a headlock and expressing affectionate ‘ohhs’. (Statham endears himself to Guy with sweet words)
In approximately five minutes, Guy recognized that Jason was the ideal choice for the role due to his ability to add a unique authenticity that no other actor could provide. Consequently, he was cast in the movie.
Jason Statham: (with a sigh of relief) Thanks for saying that.
Jason Flemyng, with a hearty chuckle, expressed his exasperation over the question, which he’s been asked for nearly a year and a half. Adopting a weary tone, he replied, “Ah, the Levi’s commercial, you never let that one go, do you?” Showing clear signs of irritation, he exclaimed, “Oh, dear God!” (emphasizing his frustration by rubbing his temples).
Interviewer: You have to ask. You’ve got no credits to talk about other than a modeling gig.
Jason Statham: To be honest, I wouldn’t be where I am today without the role I had at that time. That part led me to work with Guy Ritchie, and answering questions about it feels repetitive since it’s a topic that has been discussed frequently.
Interviewer: Probably five times today.
Jason Statham: Oh, absolutely no blame on your end! (Laughing) I just need to keep in mind my waning excitement towards that query.
Jason Statham Was Brilliant from the Beginning
In the movie “Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels,” Statham showcases a mix of charisma, humor, and toughness that distinguishes him from other young actors like Jason Flemyng, Dexter Fletcher, Nick Moran, Frank Harper, Val Blackwood, and others. It’s no surprise that Statham’s name resonates more prominently; it’s not meant to be disrespectful to the other talented cast members. Even among his character’s primary group of four, Statham stands out uniquely. This could be due to his lack of experience in leading roles before this film, which may have contributed to his laid-back, entertaining, and memorable portrayal. At the time, he didn’t even view himself as an actor, and that’s still largely true today. As Jason Flemyng reflected later in The Independent’s oral history of the movie, “…Statham was a standout.
To this day, he humbly declares, “I’m not like the true actors you see,” yet his raw talent has blossomed into a highly skilled, innovative, and meticulous artist over time. In the beginning, he relied solely on intuition and innate abilities, but he was modest about his gifts, cherishing every moment of it.
The anecdotes persist about Statham’s stardom being instantly noticeable to his fellow actors and film crew members, including producer Matthew Vaughn, who later became a director known for films like “Layer Cake”, “Kick-Ass”, “X-Men: Days of Future Past”, and the “Kingsman” series.
Dexter Fletcher: I certainly remember Jason Statham’s audition.
Statham, who used to be a professional diver, had lost his sponsorship and was approaching the end of his diving career. He was preparing to transition into stunt work. However, he did an advertisement for Stephen Marks’ British fashion brand, French Connection.
Dexter Fletcher: The audition was good enough to get him the job. Stephen kept saying to Guy, “Take a look at Jason – he has a great look and he’s really interesting.” It just clicked.
As an admirer, I can’t help but notice one of the shrewd strategies Guy employs: he strategically surrounds himself with individuals whose wisdom is undeniable. If a self-made millionaire like Stephen Marks recommends paying heed to this man, then it’s certainly advice worth following.
Dexter Fletcher: He exuded an amazing authority and charm, even without realizing it himself… I recall Matt Vaughn predicting that Jason Statham would be the next Bruce Willis. Initially, we found this idea absurd, but he was adamant about his prediction. And indeed, he proved to be right.
Guy Ritchie Continues to Make Movies with Jason Statham
In “Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels,” Jason Statham earned just £5,000, yet there were no sour feelings between him and director Guy Ritchie. Instead, the movie propelled them both into the international film world. Shortly after, they collaborated on another crime comedy titled “Snatch.” This time around, not only did Statham appear in the film, but he also lent his voice to it, serving as the narrative backbone for the production.
In 2005, while they collaborated again on a movie titled “Revolver”, Statham had already established his unique identity outside of their partnership, appearing in movies like “Ghosts of Mars”, “The One”, “The Transporter”, “The Italian Job”, “Cellular”, and even a minor role in Michael Mann’s acclaimed film, “Collateral”. Although Statham’s charm and humor were prominent in the initial two films directed by Ritchie, he would go on to become a full-fledged action star, showcasing his physical abilities, yet maintaining humor as a significant element of his appeal, which made films such as “Crank” and “Spy” among his best.
Over time, Jason Statham’s popularity skyrocketed, while Guy Ritchie shifted away from his initial filmmaking approach. After 15 years, they teamed up again for “Wrath of Man,” a collaboration that proved exceptionally fruitful and resulted in one of their best films together. Following this success, the duo swiftly moved on to another project, the distinctly different and lighter film titled “Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre.” Throughout his career, Jason Statham has consistently delivered good to great performances, even in less successful movies. However, Ritchie and Statham truly hit their stride at the beginning with “Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels,” a collaboration that required no further proof of their talents from the get-go.
You can either rent or buy “Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels” on various digital platforms such as Apple TV, Google Play, Fandango Now, or stream it via Prime Video by following the provided link below: [Link]
Watch Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels
dd
Read More
Sorry. No data so far.
2024-10-27 19:32