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PCR # 134  (Vol. 3, No. 42)  This edition is for the week of October 14--20, 2002.

This Week's PCR
Movie Review
"The Transporter"

Movie review by:
Michael A. Smith
Three stars!

Movies are rated 0 to 4 stars

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20th Century Fox     
Starring:
Jason Statham, Shu Qi, Matt Schulze
Directed by: Cory Yuen
Rated: PG13
Running Time: 1 hour 43 mins

A few weeks ago, I used this space to lament the worst action film of the year, "Ecks vs Sever." This week, I gladly bring you the best. Directed by Hong Kong action veteran Cory Yuen, "The Transporter" takes you on a journey that will leave you exhausted.

Frank Martin (Statham) lives his life and does his job by three simple rules: Rule One: Never change the deal. Rule Two: No names. Rule Three: Never look in the package. After an exciting opening sequence in which Frank sticks to rule number one, he takes a job "transporting" a package for a criminal known as Wall Street (Schulze). When curiosity gets the best of him while changing an unexpected flat tire, Frank breaks his own rule and decides to take a peek. What follows is 90 minutes of nonstop action! Co-written by Luc Besson, who brought us such excellent action fare as "La Femme Nikita" and "The Professional," the film finds a way for Frank to use every one of his skills, both behind the wheel and with his fists.

Yuen, who is also renowned as a martial arts choreographer, stages some of the most impressive hand to hand battles not seen in recent years. By sticking to close in fighting and not resorting to the use of wires and other tricks, Yuen manages to keep the action flowing. Statham, a former Olympic diver, is best known for his work with director Guy Ritchie in "Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels" and "Snatch." This is his first lead role and he pulls it off with flying colors. Shu Qi, who stars on Hong Kong television's answer to "Charlie's Angels" entitled "Virtual Twilight," is very impressive in her first English speaking role. Shy when necessary, tough when threatened and sexy throughout, she becomes an unexpected ally with Frank.

The photography by first time cinematographer Pierre Morel makes excellent use of the beautiful French locations and Stanley Clarke's hip hop score provides just the right driving beat for the on screen action. If you're looking for an action film that delivers, I definitely suggest you call on "The Transporter."

On a scale of four stars, I give "The Transporter"  


This week's movie review of "The Transporter" is ©2002 by Michael A. Smith.   All graphics this page are creations of Nolan B. Canova, ©2002, all rights reserved. All contents of "Nolan's Pop Culture Review" are ©2002 by Nolan B. Canova.