The enduring status of Jason Statham as a quintessential action hero lies in his commitment to a proven formula. With an intense on-screen presence and minimal conversation, his tough guys are driven by a singular mission: to confront and vanquish foes. Statham’s portrayals radiate a purity in exacting a particular brand of integrity. His characters eschew lengthy speeches, relying on physical prowess and unwavering determination. The ability to thrill through deeds, not dialogue, solidifies his reputation as a reliable star. Statham’s filmography boasts a series of thrilling movies where actions speak louder than words. These include The Transporter, Crank, The Mechanic, Safe, and Wrath of Man. Prepare to meet his latest persona in The Beekeeper.
In a tale of revenge and redemption, Adam Clay (Jason Statham), a reclusive beekeeper, becomes entangled in a web of deceit and corruption after his friend Eloise (Phylicia Rashad) falls victim to a phishing scam orchestrated by the United Data Group. Clay administers justice according to his own moral code. Framed for Eloise’s apparent suicide, he sets out to avenge her death, uncovering an extensive network of criminals that includes a call center run by Mickey Garnett (David Witts) and his boss, technology executive Derek Danforth (Josh Hutcherson). With the help of FBI agent Verona Parker (Emmy Raver-Lampman), Clay vows to expose the truth while remaining anonymous in his relentless pursuit.
The Beekeeper is undeniably entertaining, delivering what audiences expect. However, it falls short of fulfilling its potential, leaving a nagging sense of missed opportunity. Considering its premise, it seems fitting for the film to embrace its comedic potential wholeheartedly. This story is centered around one gifted member of an elite group of assassins dubbed The Beekeepers–who just so happens to be a literal beekeeper. A handful of pun-worthy lines are sprinkled throughout, such as “I protect the hive. Sometimes I use fire to smoke out the hornets,” or “When the hive is out of balance, you have to replace the queen,” and of course, “The question is, to bee or not to bee?”
The movie suggests a touch of camp, but I kept hoping it would fully champion a more heightened sense of the absurd. The absence of an iconic “You just got stung!” delivered right after someone dies is palpable. Meanwhile, though well-cast, the assembly of villains fails to fully embody the flamboyance the premise demands. Even Jeremy Irons, a welcome addition to any ensemble, is underutilized, lacking the over-the-top flair his retired CIA chief could have possessed. Despite these shortcomings, the film remains absorbing. Jason Statham’s capacity to ground the proceedings with his trademark charm and strength generates enough buzzworthy moments.
02-06-24
2 Responses
You kind of know what you’re getting in to when you watch Jason’s movies. I difference here. I too, wish it had more unintentional camp. 3 ⭐️
Yeah I couldn’t agree more about the missed opportunity to go more knowingly absurd. There’s too many moments that come across po-faced when some humor could have made it even better. Also thought the ending was a little on the lame side, but I can’t say I’m not interested to see what else happens. Bring on The Beekeeper 2: Into the Hornets Nest lol