Jason Statham is a throwback action star. Not since the 80’s have we seen an actor as typecast as Statham, who often portrays a cold, methodical revenge artist out for blood. As outrageously nonsensical as his movies often are, however, they are still hugely entertaining. The Transporter (2002),Crank (2006), Death Race (2008), and The Expendables (2010) might make those craving an award winner cringe, but for those in need of straight, no-holds-bar action, nothing beats a Statham flick. In 2013, Statham will once again don his familiar suit as a revenge seeker for Parker.
Parker, set to release later this month, stars Statham as a Parker, a thief — but not just any thief, a thief who follows the rules. It may sound like an oxymoron, but when his crew betrays him, Parker embarks on a quest for revenge. When he learns of his former gang’s plan to pull off their biggest heist yet in Palm Beach, the plan is set. With the help of Leslie, a “savvy insider,” Parker begins a heist of his own. In his attempt to sabotage their operation, can Parker finally bring his former crew to justice? Audiences don’t have to wait long to find out!
Alongside Statham, an actor who often commands a leading role, Parker stars Jennifer Lopez, Nick Nolte, Michael Chiklis, and Wendell Pierce. The dynamic between Parker and Lopez will most certainly drive the plot, and the themes of revenge, justice, and integrity will provide context for the main conflict. Generalities aside, theatre-goers can expect the patented Statham-esque action sequences, as well as huge, thrilling set-piece moments. It will be interesting to see how Lopez fits into it all, but she will no doubt play a major role in the film’s conclusion.
One interesting note about the film is that it is an adaptation of a series of novels first released in the 60’s. Based on the Donald E. Westlake series that follows the exploits of the character Parker, the movie has plenty of material to build upon. Since there is so much source material, it could mean that more Parker films will see release in the future. It is still early, but if Parker does well in the coming months, fans can expect a return.
The film’s director, Taylor Hackford, is no stranger to working from literature. In 1997 Hackford adapted The Devil’s Advocate to the big screen, and in 2000 Proof of Life got the big screen treatment. He is also recognized for directing the critically acclaimed film Ray in 2004.
Parker is set to release on January 25th of this year, and will carry an MPAA rating of R for strong violence, language throughout, and brief sexual content/nudity — pretty much what you expect from any Statham movie. Parker is being produced by Incentive Filmed Entertainment and distributed by FilmDistrict. No reviews for the film were available at the time this article was written, but look for them in the next few weeks. Until then, check back here for the latest news, inside reports, trailers, pictures, and videos.
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