The 15 Best Jason Statham Movies Ranked

Known for his remarkable film career that has earned billions for studios throughout the years, Jason Statham undoubtedly delights audiences. Starting with modest productions, he frequently collaborated with director Guy Ritchie. Swiftly establishing himself, Statham excelled in some of the wildest and extravagant action movies from recent decades. Under his leadership, numerous films transformed into blockbuster hits.

Without hesitation, embracing his rough movie demeanor, he’s even graced a few films mocking the realm of action flicks, frequently satirizing the kind of character he usually portrays. Statham boasts an extensive film portfolio with future projects on the horizon, yet it’s a mixed bag – some good, some poor, and occasionally downright cringe-worthy. Intrigued about which ones are worth viewing, and which stand as his masterpieces? We’ve revisited and selected 15 of Jason Statham’s top films throughout the years, ranking them from very good to outstanding.

15. Cellular

In 2004’s “Cellular”, Chris Evans, who would later become Captain America, portrayed an ordinary character named Ryan, distinct from the superheroes we’re accustomed to today. During the film, Ryan receives a fateful phone call from a woman claiming to be a kidnap victim. He initially tries to inform the authorities about the situation, but Detective Ethan Greer, played by Jason Statham, and his questionable moral compass, leaves Ryan in doubt about whether he can rely on the police.

In a tight spot, Ryan is compelled to act independently in an attempt to rescue the woman despite overwhelming odds. While “Cellular” may not be particularly exceptional within the thriller genre overall, it manages to stand out due to Statham’s performance. His character in this film deviates from the stereotypical roles we usually associate with him, as we’re left questioning whether Greer is genuinely trying to aid Ryan in saving the woman or if he might be connected to her kidnapping. This element of uncertainty is unusual in Statham’s films and contributes to its inclusion on this list, even though it ranks at the bottom.

14. Safe

In New York City, fierce rivalries exist between criminal organizations originating from China (Triad) and Russia, escalating into a brutal street war with no rules. The conflict doesn’t stem from disputes over money or territory but instead revolves around a young girl named Mei (Catherine Chan). Originally from China, she was kidnapped and forced to work for the Triad due to her exceptional abilities – a photographic memory and natural talent in mathematics, making her an indispensable resource for managing illicit finances.

As fate would have it, Mei encounters Luke Wright (played by Jason Statham), a former police officer turned hitman for the government who is now struggling to find his purpose. Spotting an opportunity for vengeance against those who had previously wronged him, Luke sees Mei as a means to achieve this goal.

2012’s “Safe” is often seen as an ordinary action movie by critics, but it stands out due to the presence of Mei, a remarkable character who complements Statham well. It also offers some thought-provoking enigmas, unexpected betrayals, and a fitting conclusion. While it may not reach the same heights as some of Statham’s most memorable roles, it still provides a good action-thriller experience, consistently meeting the expectations one has for a Jason Statham film.

13. Crank

In 2006, I found myself immersed in the wild ride of “Crank,” one of Jason Statham’s iconic one-word titles. This action-packed extravaganza is a testament to Statham’s versatility, with its humor and intensity perfectly balanced. The character of Chev Chelios, arguably, represents the pinnacle of his extreme roles, a role that was undoubtedly designed to push boundaries.

After being forced to take an unconventional adrenaline-boosting drug by my former employer, Chelios’ survival strategy became a necessity. To stay alive, he had to keep his adrenaline levels high through any means possible. From brutal fistfights to criminal activities, nothing was off the table as he embarked on a high-speed, drug-induced rampage seeking revenge before meeting his end.

The action-packed film “Crank”, starring Jason Statham, was quite extreme, even for his usual high-octane films. Some viewers found it divisive due to its weak storytelling and character development. It could be a stretch to label the plot and characters as fully developed, but with a movie like this, the characters serve more as platforms for the wild action. If you’re a viewer who enjoys movies that push the boundaries of insanity, “Crank” certainly delivers.

12. Crank: High Voltage

When considering sequels that surpass their originals, films like “The Empire Strikes Back” and “The Godfather: Part II” often come to mind. However, “Crank: High Voltage” from 2009 should not be overlooked as it stands shoulder-to-shoulder with these classics. By building upon the qualities that made the original “Crank” film remarkable, this sequel takes things a step further. With enhanced action sequences, crazier plot twists, and an even more playful, self-aware tone, “High Voltage” emerges as one of Jason Statham’s most entertaining films to watch.

Continuing right from where the initial movie ended, “Crank: High Voltage” finds Jason Statham’s character Chev Chelios dangerously close to meeting his demise. His organs are being systematically harvested, leaving him with only an artificial heart that will render him stone cold still if he doesn’t maintain the death-defying activities. In this installment, he is not just fighting for survival but also seeking out the culprits behind his latest near-death experience to exact revenge. All the while, he’s racing against time to keep himself alive.

11. The Fate of the Furious

Launched back in 2001, “The Fast and the Furious” rapidly gained popularity and spawned an extended series featuring Vin Diesel as a key player alongside a varied group of actors. Renowned for its over-the-top car stunts and tales that push the boundaries of believability, this franchise has experienced both highs and lows in terms of critical and audience reception. The 2017 installment, “The Fate of the Furious,” finds itself somewhere in the middle ground among fan opinions.

Under the guidance of director F. Gary Gray, known for collaborating with Jason Statham in “The Italian Job,” the action-packed movie “The Fate of the Furious” reintroduces Statham as the transformed Deckard Shaw, who was previously a villain. In this installment, the protagonists confront a cunning cybercriminal, portrayed by Charlize Theron, who is on a rampage. Her ultimate goal: to gain control of nuclear launch codes in an attempt to rule what’s left of the world following a devastating war. As turmoil ensues, Shaw – still incarcerated after his near-success in “Furious 7” – switches sides and becomes a reluctant ally to Dom and his crew when they need him most.

10. The Expendables 2

As a hardcore action movie fan, I can’t help but reminisce about the time when “The Expendables,” led by none other than Sylvester Stallone, gathered legends like Arnold Schwarzenegger, Bruce Willis, and Wesley Snipes on one screen. It was a tribute to the glory days of action films, but it wasn’t just a reunion of yesteryear’s greats. Stars like Jason Statham, Liam Hemsworth, and Terry Crews also jumped aboard the action-packed train. The entire series is an exhilarating rollercoaster ride to watch, much like “Crank: High Voltage,” the 2012 sequel to the 2010 original. It’s a self-indulgent, bombastic spectacle that not only lives up to its predecessor but surpasses it in almost every aspect.

In “The Expendables 2,” Jason Statham reprises his character, Lee Christmas – a former British special forces soldier skilled in swordsmanship – alongside the rugged team for another dangerous assignment. This time around, they embark on a worldwide journey following the demise of a team member, killed by Jean Vilain (Jean-Claude Van Damme), an evil arms dealer aiming to acquire plutonium for resale to the highest bidder. Watching Statham in this 80’s style action flick, “The Expendables,” is reminiscent of classic Hollywood action movies, with Statham and his co-stars taking down bad guys.

9. Wrath of Man

Director Guy Ritchie and Jason Statham have a history of working together, with some of their collaborations being considered significant milestones for both parties. The 2021 film “Wrath of Man” is an example of this partnership, featuring Statham as H, a new armored car driver who unexpectedly becomes a hero when his vehicle is targeted in a robbery attempt. However, the aftermath leaves more questions than answers about what really happened and the true intentions of H.

The film “Wrath of Man” is a story about deception and retribution that deviates from the more self-aware and action-packed style common in Statham’s movies. Instead, it presents itself as a heavy and intense crime drama that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Despite its darker atmosphere, “Wrath of Man” doesn’t disappoint when it comes to delivering what fans have come to expect from a Statham film: numerous intense gunfights, brutal physical violence, and hard-as-nails characters in an engaging thriller.

8. The Bank Job

In 2008, the film “The Bank Job” was based on a true event – a daring heist that took place in 1971. This British bank robbery, known as the Baker Street Robbery, saw thieves breaking into over 200 safety deposit boxes of an English bank. Yet, even after more than five decades, many details about this notorious crime remain a mystery, with whispers of government involvement and cover-ups that “The Bank Job” explores extensively.

As a gamer, I jump into the role of Terry Leather, who’s drawn into an elite heist operation with whispers of unimaginable wealth. Yet, it becomes clear that the masterminds behind this scheme aren’t after money, but rather salacious photos of British royals and damning evidence in wrongful possession. Caught between the web of law and politics, I find myself and my team struggling to pull off the crime and escape unscathed.

7. Hobbs and Shaw

After “The Fate of the Furious,” the “Fast and Furious” franchise temporarily stepped aside to narrate a standalone story in 2019, featuring a more compact cast but maintaining equally high-stakes action. The audience’s beloved characters Luke Hobbs (played by Dwayne Johnson) and Deckard Shaw (portrayed by Jason Statham), despite their longstanding animosity, are compelled to join forces in this installment. They confront a formidable adversary named Brixton Lore (Idris Elba), who was once an intelligence operative but has since transformed into a cyberterrorist. Equipped with advanced cybernetic enhancements, Brixton seeks to acquire a virus capable of global destruction, which coincidentally is being carried by Deckard’s sister, Hattie Shaw (played by Vanessa Kirby).

As the series has grown more humorous with each release, “Hobbs and Shaw” amped up the humor even further. A blend of action-packed thrills and outright comedy, the movie has its share of strengths and weaknesses, but it’s the electric rapport between Statham and his co-star, Dwayne Johnson, that truly brings this film to life. The impressive portrayal by Idris Elba only adds to the reasons why “Hobbs and Shaw” stands out as one of Statham’s finest performances yet.

6. The Beekeeper

In 2024, the movie “The Beekeeper” introduces us to Eloise Parker, portrayed by Phylicia Rashad of “Cosby,” a compassionate elderly woman who tragically ends her life due to an internet scam. Her friend and beekeeper Adam Clay (played by Jason Statham) feels compelled to seek justice for this loss when no one else will. However, he’s just a simple beekeeper – how can he exact revenge? It is revealed that Clay has a hidden past; he was once an agent for a secret paramilitary group called the Beekeepers (quite fittingly!), and now uses his unique skills to mete out brutal retribution to those who have wronged others.

Since the phenomenal success of “John Wick,” movies featuring ex-assassins compelled to return to their past to take revenge have been a winning formula, and that’s one reason why “The Beekeeper” captivated audiences at the box office. Blending intense action with a touch of humor, the film skillfully breathed new life into well-worn action movie cliches, resulting in the perfect popcorn flick. In terms of sheer enjoyment factor, “The Beekeeper” stands out among recent releases, boasting an endearing lead character and a flawless execution that will undoubtedly appeal to fans of Statham’s classic action roles.

5. The Italian Job

In 2003, the movie “The Italian Job,” which is part of an imaginary duology in Jason Statham’s career (we invented that), presents a fresh take on a 1969 film by the same name. The remake boasts a star-studded cast, including Jason Statham, Mark Wahlberg, Edward Norton, and Charlize Theron. The plot begins with an almost flawless heist, but everything goes awry when Edward Norton’s character, Steve Frazelli, betrays the crew by stealing the loot. A year later, the surviving members of the original robbery team reunite to seek vengeance for their fallen comrade and reclaim their stolen fortune.

While re-creating iconic films can often be tricky, “The Italian Job” stands out as one of the rare instances where they managed to hit the mark. The movie presents a unique take on the original, while still preserving enough elements to pay homage to its roots. It’s a gripping heist film that continues to engage viewers, making it a worthwhile watch even years later. Notably, “The Italian Job” is considered one of Jason Statham’s finest early performances, and remains among his best works to this day.

4. Snatch

2000’s “Snatch” is reminiscent of “Lock, Stock, and Two Smoking Barrels,” both films sharing a blend of humorous elements and gritty themes. The movie presents a rapid, engaging narrative where multiple storylines unfold simultaneously before intertwining. One such plot revolves around a group of thieves who attempt to steal a valuable diamond, leaving chaos and violence in their path. Simultaneously, the character Turkish (played by Statham) finds himself in trouble with the mob as a struggling boxing promoter, navigating through the dark and perilous criminal underworld.

Reflecting on Statham’s earlier movies, they stand apart from the roles he took after becoming a superstar. However, this difference is not a negative aspect, as it demonstrates that even with limited experience and a low budget, he has consistently delivered excellent performances. Furthermore, with an impressive cast including Brad Pitt, Stephen Graham, and Benicio Del Toro, it’s highly recommended to watch if you haven’t seen it yet.

3. Lock, Stock, and Two Smoking Barrels

In a high-stakes poker game, four companions – Eddie (Nick Moran), Soap (Dexter Fletcher), Tom (Jason Flemyng) and Bacon (Jason Statham) – were swindled, leaving them in deep debt to dangerous individuals. With only seven days at their disposal, they must find a way to gather £500,000 or else face the repercussions. Their desperate circumstances plunge them into a spiral of illicit activities and brutality. Simultaneously, a valuable pair of shotguns circulate among London’s criminal underworld.

1998’s “Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels” was Guy Ritchie’s first directorial venture, also marking Stathan’s film debut. Over two decades later, it still stands out as a significant milestone in the careers of all involved, often cited among the finest crime comedies ever produced. Remarkably, this film achieved this status despite its relatively small budget of over $1 million, earning more than 25 times that amount at the box office.

2. Furious 7

Following his success in contemporary horror filmmaking, James Wan ventured outside his usual genre and took charge of the seventh movie in the “Fast and Furious” series, released in 2015 as “Furious 7.” Star-studded as expected, this installment introduced a new antagonist, Deckard Shaw (played by Jason Statham), who sought revenge for his brother’s near-fatal injury sustained in “Fast and Furious 6.” Meanwhile, there was an unexplained disappearance of a potent surveillance technology called the God’s Eye, which, if located, could potentially thwart Shaw’s impending mayhem.

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but reflect on the pivotal role Jason Statham played in “Furious 7.” Making his debut in a sneak peek during the credits of “Fast and Furious 6,” this movie gave him the platform to truly excel in a series that feels like it was tailor-made for him. With global box office earnings exceeding $1.5 billion, “Furious 7” stands as the peak of Statham’s career, not just financially, but also as the second best film in our rankings. Beyond being an exceptional movie on its own merits, “Furious 7” is remembered for being the final installment featuring longtime series lead Paul Walker, who tragically passed away before production was completed. This emotional undertone adds a poignant layer to the series that resonates deeply with fans.

1. Spy

In the number one position, the film “Spy,” helmed by Paul Feig and featuring Melissa McCarthy, could catch some people off guard amidst Jason Statham’s extensive action-packed filmography, given that it falls under the satirical, genre-blending comedy category. This movie revolves around a clumsy office worker who unexpectedly becomes an action hero. Feig cleverly casts McCarthy alongside a genuine action star like Jason Statham, allowing him to let loose and display his hilarious comedic talents in “Spy.

Working at the CIA but yearning for more thrilling assignments, Susan Cooper (McCarthy) finally gets a chance to prove herself in the field following a massive data breach that leaves her as the sole unaffected agent. Assigned to track down the location of a nuclear weapon believed to be in the hands of terrorists, she finds herself being followed by the clumsy ex-agent Rick Ford (Statham), who unexpectedly becomes the biggest hurdle on her mission to prevent disaster.

2015’s “Spy” provides an amusing take on characters like James Bond, offering Jason Statham a platform to demonstrate his acting skills. His humorous delivery and witty dialogue made him an ideal match for McCarthy’s Susan Cooper, resulting in what appears to be his strongest screen performance to date.

2025-05-21 21:32