I have been a fan of Luc Besson for a long time now, ever since I first saw “Léon” so many years a go. He is also responsible for the best value I have ever had at the cinema, watching “The Fifth Element” for just £1 can not be beaten in my view (as well as it being one of my favorite Sci-Fi films).

Unfortunately I have managed to miss all three “Transporter” films at the cinema, but I have certainly enjoyed them at home. I was initially sceptical about Jason Statham in this role having only previously seen him in “Lock, Stock, and two smoking barrels”. But how wrong can you be? he has proved himself again and again (especially in “Crank” that I have only just seen, but will be seeing the next one when its released). He combines excellent skill, with humor and fantastic acting. Making him always a joy to watch. So the stage is set. You have some great cast, a great writer/director team, and an established character that is quiet flexible in what can be done. Does he manage to pull it off?

Does this installment work?

In a word Yes! This is a worthy addition to the other two films. As ever the lead character gets into some problem and has to think and fight his way out of it.

I have to say this film is much slower than the other two, with a lot more dialog. But that is not a bad thing. Something I have enjoying about the transporter films is that they are not just all action. Frank (Jason Statham) is not all about going in guns blazing, beating the crap out of everyone he sees. He will always try and avoid the situation, it just never quiet works out for him. I think its also the nature of French films, while they can do action when they want to, they also see the importance of characters. Something that is sorely lacking in American films now. So you develop a real attachment to the characters because they are more personal to you.

For me at least that is what really makes the film work. I am not going to go into the story, it is nicely done with some great twists. But the nature of the story lends its self to a much more close film, and the film makers give them enough time to really build on the relationship.

Action

Lets not forget the action, there is plenty to be had here so it seems a shame not to talk about it. These films have always revolved around the car, and once again this one stays with that theme but with an excellent twist provided by the story (not going to tell you, it will spoil the film). But predictable Frank gets to beat the crap out of the henchmen in some well choreographed and well done scenes. There is also an excellent fight in the middle of the film that is not only well done, but also very funny.

New Talent

Jason Statham is joined by Natalya Rudakova if you are not familiar with her, that is not a surprise. She was spotted by Luc Besson as she was crossing a street in New York, he gave her acting lessons and cast her as the lead.

You would not know she was a hairdresser before she did this film, she plays it perfectly. I am looking forward to seeing her in more.

Technical

So we have established the film is good. What about the Blu-Ray. Technically this transfer is great. Recently I have noticed a lot of film have a fair amount of noise and grain in the picture. This is especially bad in dark, and black areas as you would expect. I am pleased to say this film is not on of those.

The colour rendition is great, and if there is noise it is very hard to spot. This is important because there is a lot of textured black in this film (the car, the suit).

The only let down is the lack of extras. There are a few, and they are quiet interesting. But I would have hoped for a little more. A feature length commentary with the director, Luc Besson, Jason Statham, etc would have been interesting.

But on the whole it is a well produced disk with enough to keep you happy.

Conclusion

Worth watching. Might not have as much action as some may want.