The Transporter 3 Review
by Homer Yen (homeryen88 AT gmail DOT com)November 28th, 2008
"Transporter 3" - Mindless Fun
by Homer Yen
(c) 2008
Jason Statham. Chase scenes. Choreographed martial arts sequences. A girl who is as functional and as pretty as a hood ornament. Listen guys, this really isn't the kind of film where you think about whether you want to invest the entry fee. Either you are or you aren't. If you are, it's because of five basic reasons. 1) Jason Statham; 2) chase scenes (lots of them and all very cool); 3) martial arts sequences; 4) a pretty girl; and 5) you've tolerated the first two film of the series, which I would also categorize as mindless fun, so why not come back for thirds? The main reason not to bother is because if you are craving for action, there's another action film starring another equally sexy Brit in the same theatre. And while I like the hyper-tuned Audi that is featured in "Transporter 3", it doesn't have quite the same flair as the Aston Martin.
So for all of you who have seen "Transporter 3" or are planning to see it, I can say, however, that this one is actually the best of the three in several ways. The plot, while opaque at first, is more interesting that the first two. Frank (Statham) is more reluctant this time around, and has his back against the wall more often than not thanks to a plot device that keeps him near his car. This gives him ample opportunities to drive really, really fast. The look of the film is very handsome, featuring some of the nicest scenery that rivals the places seen in 007 films. And Statham sports a toned body, excellent abs, and a reluctant hero/tough-guy demeanor that perfectly fits this kind of film.
The hallmarks of these films are the various chase sequences. And there are some memorable stunts (or CGI-created sequences). One involves an extended chase that begins on a narrow two-lane highway, continues with an unbelievable maneuver to pass by two 18-wheelers, and ends on a mountainside dirt road. Another one that has to make you grin is where Frank commandeers a bicycle to pursue the bad guys.
On the flip side, the decision to give Frank a little more character development by showcasing him as a gourmand (in addition to driver/fighter) seemed just bizarre. Meanwhile, there is absolutely no chemistry between him and his female companion, and when the obligatory kiss comes, it qualifies as The Most Unlikely Screen Couple in cinematic history. Regarding the girl (Natalya Rudakova), you've never seen anyone so equally cute and vapid at the same time. However, all of these films have featured soft sex kittens rather than strong female leads, so she keeps the status quo.
The movie will hold your attention. Jason Statham is a good action hero, although I fear that all of his films will involve a car. He's an excellent bodyguard and certainly someone that will cause you to think twice before engaging him in melee. The villains are also charismatic and menacing. It's always funny to see the top villain punish his subordinates who fail. And Audi scores a coup for its nice looking car. "Transporter 3" isn't a great film. But it is a guilty pleasure.
Grade: C+
S: 1 out of 3
L: 2 out of 3
V: 2 out of 3
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