Review by Jon Donnis
Expend4bles, the fourth electrifying chapter in The Expendables saga, rekindles the essence of classic action films, delivering a turbocharged cinematic experience. Headlined by a stellar ensemble cast including action icons like Jason Statham, Sylvester Stallone, Dolph Lundgren, and an array of new talents, the film doesn't skimp on the explosive action sequences and bone-crushing confrontations that fans have come to expect.
Jason Statham's performance as Lee Christmas stands out, bringing depth and intensity to his character, especially in the realm of knife combat. The film shines with its relentless action, boasting memorable set pieces that embrace the franchise's reputation for exhilarating and adrenaline-pumping sequences.
However, amidst the star power, some of the new cast additions fall short, failing to match the impact of the established stars from previous films. Additionally, there were instances of lacklustre special effects and CGI, a common woe in contemporary Hollywood blockbusters due to rushed production timelines.
The storyline follows the Expendables as they venture into Libya to thwart the machinations of the enigmatic Ocelot, who plans to plunge the world into chaos with stolen warheads. The stakes are high, and the team's loyalties are tested as they battle adversity, with Lee Christmas taking the lead to avenge a fallen comrade and prevent a global catastrophe.
Though not groundbreaking, the narrative serves as a fitting framework for the relentless action, culminating in a gripping climax that encapsulates the core of the series.
Overall, Expend4bles is a nostalgic delight for action enthusiasts and die-hard fans of The Expendables. With its adrenaline-fueled action, resonant macho dialogues, a mix of beloved and fresh faces, the film pays homage to the essence of the series. Despite its imperfections, the movie emerges as a strong addition to the action genre, earning a commendable rating of 7.5/10.
In Cinemas now!
And you can catch up with the first 3 films at https://amzn.to/3PA488B
