Jason Statham: In for a Penny, In for a Pound
As someone who has dominated the action genre for decades, Jason Statham is both an icon and enigma. When I sat down with him at the premiere of his latest film, Shelter, the intrepid star revealed a refreshing truth: even after years of high-speed chases and gravity-defying escapades, he's still chasing that thrill with the same zest as his early career.
Statham's commitment to performing his own stunts is legendary, and during our conversation, he candidly admitted that it hasn't always paid off. "There have been many stunts where I went too far," he reflected, recalling moments of pain and reflection. It's a sentiment that resonates with anyone who has ever pushed themselves beyond their limit.
“When you get hurt, you often think, 'Why didn't I get a stuntman to do that?'”
Pushing Boundaries in Action Cinema
The physical demands of action cinema are immense, and Statham, now a father of two, seems unfazed. His mantra—"in for a penny, in for a pound"—echoes his philosophy towards both life and filmmaking. This attitude isn't just an endearing quirk; it encapsulates the spirit of a man who has perfected his craft through years of learning different disciplines.
In a world where CGI often takes precedence, Statham is a throwback to the days of practical effects and visceral stunts. He shared, "I've spent years honing my craft, and I want to get in front of the camera and do as much as I can." His drive is palpable, as is his insistence on authenticity that's felt through every punch and explosion.
Navigating Age and Longevity
While discussing age, Statham chuckled about the inevitable effects of time. He remarked, "As you get older, you're less bouncy than when you were 25, but I'm still going! My secret? Lots of physio!" His jovial attitude towards aging speaks volumes about his resilience and passion for his work.
Shelter: A Shift in Genre
Shelter marks a departure from the traditional action formula, intertwining elements of thriller in a story about a reclusive former assassin drawn back into chaos after rescuing a young girl. This film allows Statham to explore deeper, more nuanced emotions, presenting him as a character caught between his violent past and a hopeful future.
A Challenging Journey
The film doesn't shy away from the physical toll that an action hero faces. Statham described an open-sea rescue sequence as particularly brutal, where he confronted both his fears and physical limits. He notes, "It's hard to make underwater work look good, especially when swimming with a jacket and size 10 boots isn't easy."
Even so, nerves don't bother him anymore. “There's nothing to be nervous about anymore; I've done it for a few too many years now,” he smiled, hinting at the comfort he has in his own skin.
Looking Ahead
Statham's career isn't slowing anytime soon. With several projects lined up, including a sequel to The Beekeeper and Viva La Madness under the direction of Guy Ritchie, he jokes, "Audiences will be sick of me by the end of the year!" It's clear that his love for storytelling isn't just a job—it's a calling.
As he prepares for filming with Ritchie, he reflects, “I owe Ritchie a lot; he started my career, so I'm excited to be back with him." Statham's narrative is a testament to the energy and passion that define the action star's illustrious career.
Conclusion
Jason Statham is more than just an action star; he's a fearless risk-taker who pushes the boundaries of what it means to be at the forefront of cinema. His journey is a compelling blend of risk, challenge, and an unquenchable thirst for growth in a dynamic landscape. For those of us who revel in the spectacle of cinema, Statham's pursuit of excellence serves as a thrilling reminder that in life and film, sometimes you have to take the leap—despite the cost.
Source reference: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn421lk5y70o
