The Transporter (2002)

Director: Louis Leterrier, Corey Yuen

Starring: Jason Statham, Shu Qi, Matt Schulze

Frank Martin, who “transports” packages for unknown clients, is asked to move a package that soon begins moving, and complications arise.

Frank is precise. Frank is prompt. Frank is dedicated. Frank is a one of a kind transporter – for ‘special’ deliveries.

And Jason Statham is good as Frank Martin. At least here, one can’t accuse him of being type cast (because in all his films to follow he would portray similar characters, making me question his acting ability). He is agile, fit, has great martial arts skills, and a really great physique. Fortunately, the film finds quite a few excuses to show off his muscular body, and I’m not complaining!

Back to the film. Frank Martin has rules as a transporter, but when he breaks his own rules just once, all hell breaks loose when he gets in way over his head. Frank takes revenge on a corrupt group of people out to kill him, but this ex marine has a few surprises up his sleeve as he outwits and outfights the gang. There’s lots of action, and lots of humor – mostly dry humor thanks to Statham. And there’s plenty of close-ups on his body….

Erm, yes, the movie! The film features a nice soundtrack, and some great action sequences. It’s not always logical or believable, but it certainly is a hell of a lot of fun. The cliched romance interest is present, as well, but it actually was enjoyable this time around. Shu Qi was rather cute as ‘the package’. If you’re looking for an action film with a fairly simple premise, then ‘The Transporter’ is a good choice!

The film was a box office success and propelled Jason Statham to super stardom, making him a household name as an action hero. The film grossed nearly $44 million on a $21 million budget.

Would I watch it again? Yup!