Review of The Mechanic (2011) by Derek S — 24 Sep 2011

Another Jason Statham vehicle, and not a very new concept. He's played a hitman before, including his roles the Crank films, and I deem him very fit for every one of those flicks. He's never a fun-loving guy character, and in The Mechanic he's a straight forward bad-ass with his own agenda, playing then again another hitman. This time, Ben Foster is thrown in the mix as Bishop's (Statham) latest victim's son, who just happens to be interested in learning his trade. Bishop then teaches him a few things, and they go on a couple missions together, most of the time Steve is an egotistical, self-righteous maniac looking for pure adrenaline rushes. He actually disobeys Bishop's rules, going on his own terms, and trying to be the best in the business. His cocky attitude gets him into some trouble, eventually pitting him against Arthur Bishop, getting a wake up call.

The Mechanic is nothing special whatsoever. But the action sequences are good enough for an enjoyable popcorn flick, and Statham's charisma is just too hard not to be drawn into. Everything is pretty much by-the-books, but I liked it, and it was a fun ride.