The Beekeeper Movie Review

The Beekeeper (2024) Movie Review

Over the past two decades, former Commonwealth Game’s diver turned actor Jason Statham (yes, he was a professional diver at the 1994 commonwealth games, google it), has proven himself to be one of the best action stars working today. His work ethic and body of work that reflects this is unparalleled to any other action star working today, well aside from Liam Neeson of course. Some of Staham’s film credits include ‘The Expendables 1 - 4’, ‘Homefront’, ‘The Italian Job’, ‘The Meg and Meg 2’, ‘Hobbs & Shaw’, ‘The Transporter 1 - 3’, ‘The Mechanic and ‘The Mechanic: Resurrection’, ‘Parker’, ‘Safe’ and loads more. He always delivers in this genre, just give him a new occupation, and watch the man go to work.

When it was announced in 2021 that David Ayer (Training Day, End of Watch, Sabotage, Fury, Suicide Squad, Bright, The Tax Collector) would be teaming up with Statham for an action flick, I was already on board. I didn’t need to know what the project was, with these two, I knew it was bound to be, at the very least, entertaining. When it was announced the film was titled ‘The Beekeeper’ and would see Statham play an apiarist named Adam Clay, as he marks on a brutal quest for vengeance after someone very close to him is scammed and it is revealed just how dangerous Adam Clay is. The premise is kind of absurd, but in the best way possible. When it comes to these types of action flicks, this is exactly what I want, and boy does ‘The Beekeeper’ deliver.

The real selling point for this movie is the man plastered all over the posters, Mr Jason Statham. At 54 years of age, he hasn’t lost any of his ability, showcasing impressive stunt work in some truly kickass action set-pieces. He still predominantly does a lot of his own stunt work, which I will always champion in an action film. His ability to really put his body on the line and perform some of these stunts is awe inspiring. You may have to suspend belief for a few of these sequences, but in all honesty, that’s what makes them more fun and memorable. The supporting cast here are fantastic as well. Josh Hutcherson from FNAF and Hunger Games, fme takes on the role of Derek Danforth the films main antagonist. It’s unique casting, as he usually plays the hero or likeable lead in each of the films he's in, but here he sells the villainy, with a fantastic, antagonising performance. Jeremy Irons shows up briefly as well, and for those of you who follow my Instagram or have listened to my podcast, I have sung the praises of this man many times. He is always wonderful.

David Ayer also returns to form here, after a handful or box office and critical disappointments, with a strong showing, once again showcasing his talents as one of the most unique voices when it comes to action. He knows exactly where he needs to put the camera during these action set-pieces, moving it around, to make the action feel more enjoyable. The action genre, outside of the John Wick films, has slowly devolved into quick-cut action sequences with generic plots and stock characters that feel like they have been cut and pasted from one film to the next. Thankfully Ayer has a clear vision and a clear style that works for these types of action flicks. After the success both critically and commercially for ‘The Beekeeper’, I hope Ayer is working on a sequel.

‘The Beekeeper’ is an ode to action films of the 1980s and 1990s. Director David Ayer directs this flick with style and craftsmanship, as the film has a breakneck and ruthless pace that will keep you on the edge of your seat for its entire 105-minute runtime. Jason Statham once again proves himself as one of Hollywood’s most entertaining leading men, showing his dedication to the craft and putting his body on the line for some truly entertaining action set-pieces. Josh Hutcherson also shows his range as an actor, breaking the mould of the ‘good guy’ persona he built up through his early career as a truly menacing villain. ‘The Beekeeper’ is a must-watch for action fans, be sure to secure your copy today on DVD or Blu-Ray and for everything else, be sure to shop Sanity’s extensive range of goodies!

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Christopher Pattison wrote this blog post for Sanity. See more from Chris here