- George Chung
- Jul 26, 2024
- 3 min read
Today marks the birthday of one of Hollywood's most iconic action stars, Jason Statham. Known for his rugged charm, intense screen presence, and unparalleled martial arts skills, Statham has carved out a unique niche in the film industry. As we celebrate his birthday, let's take a look at five movies that prove he is a great martial artist. Happy Birthday Jason Statham...
1. "The Transporter" (2002)
"The Transporter" is the film that catapulted Jason Statham to international stardom and established him as a leading action hero. Statham plays Frank Martin, a professional driver who specializes in transporting dangerous and illegal goods.
The movie is packed with high-octane action sequences that highlight Statham's martial arts skills, particularly his proficiency in kickboxing and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. His precise and powerful fighting style, combined with his ability to perform complex stunts, made "The Transporter" a benchmark for action films.
2. "Crank" (2006)
In "Crank," Statham takes on the role of Chev Chelios, a hitman who has been injected with a poison that will kill him if his heart rate drops. The film's frenetic pace and relentless action sequences showcase Statham's agility and endurance.
His background in martial arts is evident in the film's many fight scenes, where he utilizes a mix of street fighting techniques and hand-to-hand combat. "Crank" stands out as a testament to Statham's ability to perform intense action sequences with finesse and precision.
3. "Safe" (2012)
"Safe" features Jason Statham as Luke Wright, a former elite operative turned cage fighter. The film's plot revolves around Wright's mission to protect a young girl from various criminal organizations.
Statham's martial arts training is on full display in this movie, with expertly choreographed fight scenes that incorporate elements of mixed martial arts, including striking and grappling techniques. His ability to seamlessly blend different fighting styles underscores his versatility and depth as a martial artist.
4. "The Expendables" Series (2010-2014)
Statham joins an ensemble cast of legendary action stars in "The Expendables" series, where he plays Lee Christmas, a former SAS soldier and expert in hand-to-hand combat. Throughout the series, Statham's character is involved in numerous combat sequences that highlight his proficiency in various martial arts disciplines.
His dynamic fight scenes, often involving knives and close-quarters combat, are a highlight of the series. Statham's performance in "The Expendables" solidifies his reputation as a top-tier action star.
5. "The Mechanic" (2011)
In "The Mechanic," Statham portrays Arthur Bishop, a highly skilled assassin known for his methodical and precise approach to his work. The film's action sequences are meticulously crafted to showcase Statham's martial arts capabilities, with a particular emphasis on his striking techniques and acrobatic skills.
The movie's blend of intense action and intricate choreography provides a platform for Statham to demonstrate his martial arts prowess, making it a standout in his filmography.
Honorable Mention: "Furious 7" (2015)
Although primarily known for its high-speed car chases, "Furious 7" features some of the most memorable fight scenes in the "Fast & Furious" franchise, thanks to Jason Statham's portrayal of Deckard Shaw.
Statham's combat skills are showcased in several thrilling sequences, including a brutal showdown with Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. His ability to perform complex fight choreography with precision and intensity adds a new dimension to the film's action-packed narrative.
Jason Statham's martial arts expertise has been a defining element of his career, and these movies are a testament to his dedication and skill. As we celebrate his birthday, we look forward to many more years of breathtaking action and unforgettable performances from this remarkable actor and martial artist.
