Safe (2012) is an action thriller starring Jason Statham. While Statham consistently delivers strong performances, the quality of his films can vary. Safe follows the familiar formula of Statham as a rogue badass navigating a world of action and cheesy dialogue. This review delves into the movie’s plot, pacing, and overall entertainment value, focusing on whether it lives up to the Statham standard.
Safe (2012): A Jason Statham Action Vehicle
Safe’s plot centers around Statham’s character protecting a young girl, Mei (Catherine Chan), who possesses a photographic memory and valuable information sought by both the Chinese Triads and corrupt NYPD officers. The film opens with parallel scenes establishing both Mei’s and Statham’s predicament, a technique that effectively sets the stage for their intertwined fates. The movie relies heavily on familiar action tropes: gunfights, hand-to-hand combat, car chases, and explosions. While these elements are well-executed, they offer little originality to the genre. The storyline involving Mei’s extraordinary memory and her importance as a human data carrier provides a somewhat unique twist. However, the subplot involving warring gangs and corrupt cops feels tired and predictable.
One questionable aspect of the narrative is the vague explanation of Statham’s character’s backstory. The transition from a regular cop to a seemingly enhanced individual reminiscent of Bane from Batman feels jarring and underdeveloped. Despite this narrative hiccup, the movie maintains a fast pace, ensuring consistent engagement. Catherine Chan delivers a remarkable performance considering her age, holding her own alongside Statham. Notable supporting roles include James Hong as a Triad boss and Robert John Burke as a corrupt police captain.
Safe (2012): The Verdict
Safe (2012) doesn’t reinvent the action wheel but provides a satisfying dose of Statham-fueled thrills. The well-choreographed action sequences, Chan’s compelling performance, and the film’s relentless pace compensate for the predictable plot and underdeveloped backstory. While the movie might not resonate with audiences seeking innovative storytelling, it delivers on its promise of action-packed entertainment. Fans of Statham’s previous work in films like The Mechanic, Blitz, Crank, and Transporter will likely find Safe a worthwhile addition to his filmography.
For those seeking a thought-provoking or groundbreaking action film, Safe might fall short. However, if you’re in the mood for a mindless, action-packed ride with a solid performance from Statham, Safe is a safe bet. Ultimately, it earns a 7/10 for its entertainment value.
