Movie Review: ‘A Working Man’ – A Jason Statham Thriller Worth Watching
Get ready for an exhilarating ride as Jason Statham takes center stage in "A Working Man," a gripping action thriller directed by David Ayer. Based on the book "Levon’s Trade" by Chuck Dixon, this movie reveals the darker side of the ordinary as it explores themes of family, obligation, and redemption.
Meet Levon Cade: A Man Torn Between Two Worlds
At the heart of A Working Man is Levon Cade, brilliantly portrayed by Jason Statham. Once a decorated Royal Marine, Levon yearns for a stable, conventional life—one that he hopes to secure through his job as a construction foreman under Joe Garcia (played by Michael Peña). His goal? To win back the custody of his daughter, Merry (talented newcomer Isla Gie), who is living with her grandfather, Dr. Jordan Roth (portrayed by Richard Heap), after the tragic loss of Levon’s wife.
However, as fate would have it, Levon’s quest for normalcy is disrupted when Joe’s daughter, Jenny (played by Arianna Rivas), is kidnapped. Feeling a strong sense of duty, Levon is propelled into a treacherous underworld of Russian drug traffickers and human smugglers. With the help of his former comrade, Gunny Lefferty (a solid performance by David Harbour), he embarks on a heart-pounding quest to rescue Jenny, showcasing both his military prowess and relentless determination.
A Solid Blend of Action and Emotion
A Working Man positions itself comfortably within the realm of action-packed thrillers reminiscent of Jack Reacher, but it elevates the experience through Statham’s charismatic performance. The film delivers on popcorn entertainment, offering a mix of tension and excitement, punctuated by action sequences that range from spectacular to slightly absurd.
However, it’s essential to note that while the film is entertaining, it doesn’t quite reach the exhilarating heights of Statham and Ayer’s previous collaboration, The Beekeeper.
A Few Bumps in the Road
While not outright bad, the movie does have its hiccups. It may feel a bit long at times, dragging in the middle with stretches that resemble filler material. Yet, despite these minor distractions, the film knows where it’s headed, and Levon’s journey towards resolution remains compelling.
Importantly, the emotional arc—Levon’s struggle to connect with his daughter against impossible odds—adds a layer of depth that is often missing in action films. It gives viewers a reason to root for him beyond mere action.
Should You Watch It?
In a nutshell, I left the theater satisfied, having witnessed Statham deliver a compelling performance filled with impressive fight scenes and emotional weight. If you’re a fan of action thrillers or simply enjoy Statham’s past work, A Working Man is a worthy watch.
Additionally, the film raises an intriguing question for avid readers: does it make you want to pick up Chuck Dixon’s original novel? For many, the lure to dive deeper into the Levon Cade series couldn’t be more enticing.
The Future of Levon Cade on Screen
As the cinematic universe evolves, it appears we may not see another Levon Cade adventure on the big screen soon, similar to afamed characters like Jack Reacher who might find a better fit for their stories on television platforms. Nonetheless, fans of Statham will undoubtedly keep their eyes peeled for what’s next.
In conclusion, whether you’re in it for the action, the heart, or the charisma of Jason Statham, A Working Man promises an engaging adventure that adds a satisfying entry to the action genre. Don’t miss this thrilling ride!
