Author and editor who loves all things horror, sci-fi, and Alien. Most likely to be found at The Prince Charles, either for a classic movie screening or to throw a spoon at Tommy Wiseau. Screen Rant contributor since 2021.
Although he is now one of the biggest action movie stars on the planet, Jason Statham's acting career had somewhat humble beginnings, 26 years ago. Before he became the face of franchises like The Transporter and The Expendables, Statham made his debut alongside a slew of other up-and-coming stars in Guy Ritchie's gangster flick, Lock, Stock, and Two Smoking Barrels.
As Bacon, Statham sets the tone for the film. As part of the central quartet of friends who set the story in motion with their plan to cash in at a criminal card game, he displays great comic timing and exudes charm. However, the movie also contains hints of the threat he would carry in later roles. When the group robs Dog's gang of thieves, Statham is genuinely menacing – demonstrating a versatility that explains his later career success.
As a fast-talking hustler, Statham exudes on-screen charisma, without having to resort to improbable physical feats. Beyond this, he is also very funny, delivering lines with a wry sense of humor that is reminiscent of his work in Spy, Jason Statham's best-rated movie to date. While his emphasis on action has clearly paid dividends, it's evident from Lock, Stock that he has many more strings to his bow.
The variety of characters allows Lock, Stock to paint a colorful portrait of London's criminal underworld. However, it also has a negative effect on the story. It becomes difficult to empathize too closely with any one storyline, since characterization is inevitably cut short by competing priorities. Even though it's a hallmark of the movie, the sad truth is that many of these figures would benefit from more time in the spotlight.
The movie consistently makes crime – whether it's associated with drug dealing, gambling, or violence – not only seem like a potential solution to personal problems, but also incredibly fun. There are very few serious consequences for any of the protagonists, and even the villains are played for laughs rather than anything genuinely threatening.
Perhaps the most obvious mark against it is the similarities the movie has with Quentin Tarantino's Pulp Fiction. Like Lock, Stock, Pulp Fiction blends multiple stories into a single, fairly coherent narrative . Given that Pulp Fiction, and other similar predecessors, paved the way for Lock, Stock, its narrative approach feels markedly less impressive.
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