The Mechanic

The Mechanic is a loose remake of a 1972 Charles Bronson film. Not having seen the Bronson film, I'm reviewing this purely as a standalone movie. This version of The Mechanic follows assassin Arthur Bishop (Jason Statham) and his his assistant Steve McKenna (Ben Foster)   on various assassinations until one goes wrong and another turns out to be more than it appeared. It's a simple but effective set-up for some equally effective action.

My favorite thing about Jason Statham is that, unlike a lot of other action stars, he has no delusions of being a serious actor. That's not to say that his acting is bad, but he acknowledges his limited range and understands exactly why he's being given a paycheck: he enters a scene, kicks ass, and moves on to the next scene without any stupid one-liners, catchphrases, or attempts to look hip. His style, like his better movies, is ruthlessly efficient.

And The Mechanic is no exception. It's a predictable movie, hitting all the tropes and cliches you'd expect it to, which means that if this isn't your first action movie you'll see all the intended twists and surprises coming a mile away. On the other hand it also doesn't waste time on inconsequential plot points like too many other action movies and offers enough stylish and intense action to more than overcome a mediocre plot. There's a nice variety to the action, a fast pace, and serviceable performances from all involved. The only real standout is Donald Sutherland, who shows how to go out with dignity and class. The film itself is adequately written and efficiently shot, and with a $40 million budget, it makes you wonder how similar movies usually end up costing twice as much.

In short, The Mechanic is a worthwhile action flick, nothing more and nothing less. It's a solid effort in all respects that's likely to mean bigger movies in Statham's future, or far more likely, the same movies but with bigger budgets.

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