Crank: Movie, DVD, Blu-ray Review (2006)

(Originally published 2006)

The new Mark Neveldine and Brian Taylor movie, "Crank," might be inspired by the 1950 film, "D.O.A.," but really, it's more of a sly, hardcore throwback to the action films of the 1970s, when political correctness didn't alter creative thought and the movies, as such, were a lot looser to watch.

Looser doesn't necessarily mean better, though without the presence of a filter, there's no question that the films "Crank" is trying to emulate had a raw edge that many of today's movies lack.

Since it's that very edge that also tended to offend, whether it was through the use of blood violence, racial stereotypes or in the negative treatment of women, what Neveldine and Taylor present here is twofold--a satire of those films, as well as an homage to them. They're playing with the conventions of the genre, they're honored to do so, and they're happy that everyone here is in on the game.

The film stars Jason Statham as Chev Chelios, a hit man who begins the film in what should be the final, deadly throes of the Beijing Cocktail. No, that isn't a fancy drink with a pretty paper umbrella, but a toxin injected into Chev's neck by the toughs who want him dead.

In a helpful DVD the men leave for Chev, he's told he has only an hour to live. So naturally Chev kicks into high gear, only to learn that the more aggressive he becomes, the better he feels. His doctor (Dwight Yoakam, terrific) gives him an explanation for his condition that comes down to this--there is no cure for the toxin, though increased doses of adrenalin will keep Chev alive, at least for a time. Since Chev is determined to seek his revenge before he dies, he becomes an adrenalin junkie, chugging Red Bull and snorting cocaine on bathroom floors only to slow down (briefly) when the film introduces his clueless girlfriend, Eve (Amy Smart).

Throughout "Crank," Neveldine and Taylor take so many R-rated risks, they create a movie that makes you feel as if you've been slapped by a stranger--you're startled by the violence, surprised by the chutzpah, and maybe, as this movie sees it, a little turned on.

The film is over stylized to the point that it becomes a video game, with a deliciously cheesy soundtrack that matches the quick-cut editing. Statham ("The Transporter") remains dependable in the genre--he has the action hero's swift kick, gravelly voice, and tight-fisted gate down pat. Better yet, what's starting to come through all that stubble is a sense of humor, a trace of a personality, and now there is the hint that he might be able to act. If he couldn't, how else could he keep a straight face in what proves to be one of this summer's most ridiculous guilty pleasures?

Grade: B+