Mechanic: Resurrection - An Action Film Past Its Prime
An outdated action flick that feels more like a B-movie from the late 90s than a sequel to its predecessor.
Arthur Bishop (Jason Statham), the notorious hitman known for making assassinations look like accidents, thought he’d left his past behind. But fate has other plans when he encounters the beautiful Gina (Jessica Alba), who’s working under the thumb of the villainous Crain (Sam Hazeldine). As Bishop and Gina fall in love, Crain sees an opportunity. He kidnaps Gina, forcing Bishop to undertake a series of three impossible assassinations.
If you thought the era of cheesy, over-the-top action movies was over, think again. While they may not be as prevalent as they once were, the filmmakers behind them are still around, sticking to their guns. They’re banding together, investing significantly more money into their projects, and trying to pass them off as A-list action films. But the core remains the same. If “Mechanic: Resurrection” starred Olivier Gruner, Jeff Wincott, or Gary Daniels instead of Jason Statham, it wouldn’t make much of a difference.
The first “Mechanic” wasn’t a masterpiece, but it was one of Jason Statham’s better films in recent years. It was a decent action-thriller with a coherent plot and a likable duo. It focused less on Statham’s usual chases and fights and more on the meticulous planning of deadly traps and the growing psychological tension between mentor and apprentice. The sequel abandons this approach entirely. Bishop’s first assassination relies heavily on chance and coincidence. The second (featured in the trailer) is visually impressive, but the victim practically invites his own demise with his poolside antics. From there, Statham throws caution to the wind and enters “destroy everything in sight” mode.
Redeeming Qualities?
For those who haven’t grown tired of this kind of mindless destruction, “Resurrection” might offer a few moments of enjoyment. Statham is in peak physical condition, the action is filmed competently, and the story takes you to various exotic locations. Jessica Alba is also a treat to watch, especially in a scene where she’s in a swimsuit and goes diving. She still looks stunning, as if no time has passed since “Into the Blue.”
The Downside
However, “Mechanic: Resurrection” suffers from a stale, almost offensive odor. Releasing such straightforward, simple-minded, and frankly, idiotic films in 2016 feels disrespectful to the audience. No amount of flashy visuals, energetic action, Michelle Yeoh’s cameo, or Tommy Lee Jones’ brief appearance (he’s only in the final quarter of the film) can mask its tired, derivative nature. Perhaps only Alba in a bikini could save it, but even that’s not enough in “Resurrection.”