The Mechanic

I wasn't at all surprised that the theater was completely empty. I haven't seen a single ad for this movie and if it weren't for FilmBooster, I probably wouldn't have even known about it. I’m finally seeing Statham as a good actor. I have to admit, he has some charisma and grit to him. The movie felt pretty real and not over the top. I was covering my eyes during the garbage disposal scene. Still, I have to criticize the boring beginning. The acting was good, the ending was above standard. Somehow I want to liken it to The American... here I missed an attractive city and atmosphere. On the other hand, The Mechanic was grittier and more involved. Maybe the empty cinema helped, but I’m rating the film above average... 3.5 stars. (17/08/2011)

Another action film with Statham, who sometimes looks quite tough, but one still gets the feeling that it's more of an act. It's not bad, but it's pretty standard for Statham. Nothing that fundamentally stands out, and it’s still some sort of code, even if twisted. I was hoping the film would grip me, but it didn't happen. It’s more so a slower ride. (31/03/2014)

A solid genre movie with several very cool moments. The escape by wheelchair us one of the most incredibly hilarious scenes that you have ever seen. The action is nice, but economical, the screenplay full of plotholes and Simon West doesn’t have the sense to make up for that elsewhere. At least Jason is Jason and Foster is Foster and the dancer is hot as hell. (23/04/2011)

Jason Statham delivers exactly what you’d expect—he’s tough as nails, and about as gentle as a bulldozer. This movie is pure action, and it’s easy to enjoy because everything works the way it should: action, one-liners, and solid characters. I can't give it a full five stars, though, because Statham still isn’t Arnold, Van Damme, or Stallone. What he lacks is that emotional punch. But honestly, he's the closest of today's action stars to reach that level. We’ll see how he evolves, but for now, The Mechanic absolutely hits the mark. (20/08/2012)

It is very cold and conceptual, without any idea or the ability to captivate – purely half-hearted routine. From the well-known names involved in the film, I expected something much better. And from Ben Foster, I expected better acting. Surprisingly average action. (20/06/2011)