Chennai: One of the biggest advantages associated with making a sequel is that there is tremendous curiosity surrounding it. However, on the flip side there is major risk involved in it as well. And that even its minute shortcomings in the attempted sequel end up getting magnified. Unfortunately, the makers of ‘The Transporter Refueled’ may have to learn this lesson the hard way.
Here is a look at why the Camille Delamarre-directed thriller falls way short of the high standards set by the previous installments of the ‘The Transporter’ franchise.
The series needs Jason Statham: Jason Statham’s intense yet highly effortless performances in the first three films of the franchise had played a big role in helping them find success. The 48-year-old actor added new life to the onscreen proceedings thanks to his top notch expressions, casual dialogue delivery and above all crackling chemistry with co-stars. Furthermore, being well versed with martial arts in real-life, the ‘Furious 7’ villain imparted a sense of authenticity to the fight scenes.
In ‘The Transporter Refueled’, Statham has been replaced by upcoming British actor Ed Skrein. And to put it politely, the ‘Game of Thrones’ star makes an absolute mockery of his role. While Skrein is sincere in a few scenes, the basic problem is that he lacks the kind of intensity needed for essaying an ‘action hero’.
In fact, at certain points in the first half it appears he merely going through the motions. This problem is magnified further, courtesy his underwhelming screen presence. All of this results in a highly forgettable viewing experience. Jason Statham, we miss you!
Film is marred by shoddy writing: In the opening scenes of ‘The Transporter Refueled’ we are introduced not only to the protagonist, but also his father played by Ray Stevenson. The emotional undercurrents between the two characters could have been used for imparting a touch of tenderness to the narrative.
However, the father-son bond is never really explored in full depth. The main reason for this is the Skrein fails to strike up a crackling chemistry with Stevenson. Moreover, the father’s character has not been fleshed out properly and comes across as a caricature. As a result, the emotional track never really strikes a chord with the audience.
It offers nothing new: Even though ‘The Transporter Refueled’ is touted as an action-thriller, it never really gives us the proverbial “thrills and chills”. Most of the action/chase sequences are generic in nature. This aspect is highlighted even further because of a weak background score. Moreover, Skrein’s execution of the fight sequences lacks conviction.
To make matters even worse, the few scenes that do manage to hold one’s attention have a ‘seen it before’ feel about them. This goes a long way in diluting their impact. And lastly, the film’s resident “femme fatales” deliver wooden performances. While they up the glamour quotient by a few notches, it fails to cover up for their lackluster acting.
Comments
0 comment