Daniel Day-Lewis is undeniably one of the greatest actors in cinematic history, with three Academy Awards to his name—three more than his fellow English actor, Jason Statham. Yet, while Day-Lewis has mesmerized audiences with his method acting, Statham has left his mark with action-packed feats that defy belief. Has Day-Lewis ever choked a man with a handful of casino chips, knocked out an opponent with a coin, killed someone with a spoon, or punched a man in the fist with his own head? Jason Statham did all these in one film, showcasing a level of action prowess that's unparalleled.
Statham has solidified his status as one of the 21st century's most reliable action stars. With his latest film, A Working Man, now in theaters, it's the perfect time to celebrate his career. Here's a look at our top picks from Jason Statham's thrilling and often humorous filmography. After all, until the Academy starts recognizing achievements like walking through fire, water-skiing blindfolded, or mastering the piano later in life, it's the least we can do to honor his unique talents.
The Best Jason Statham Movie Moments
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Homefront
Ever wonder if Jason Statham's action heroes could take down foes with their hands tied behind their back? In Homefront, Statham proves it's not just a wonder—it's a fact. He takes out three men single-handedly while restrained, setting the stage for an action-packed list.
The Beekeeper
The Beekeeper might have shown a softer side of Statham, as he spared some scam call center employees who apologized. However, he quickly regained his edge by chasing down their manager, strapping him to a truck, and sending the vehicle off a bridge, dragging the villain behind. Statham's action scenes are as effective as they are entertaining, even if they don't match the flight of a bumblebee.
Wild Card
Let's revisit Wild Card, a film that didn't get the attention it deserved. Directed by the visionary behind Con Air, it features some of Statham's best fight scenes. Armed only with a spoon and a butter knife, Statham takes down five armed goons without a scratch, solidifying his status as the master of unconventional weaponry.
Death Race
Paul W.S. Anderson may not be known for prestige, but his Death Race deserves recognition for its commitment to practical effects and high-octane action. Statham outsmarts his rivals and the Juggernaut, showcasing his strategic mind alongside his physical prowess.
The Meg
No list would be complete without Statham's battle against a megalodon in The Meg. He not only slices the beast open but also rides it like a surfboard, spearing its eye in the process. This scene proves that no matter the size of the predator, Statham can take it down.
The Transporter
Sliding in at number seven is Statham's iconic role as Frank Martin in The Transporter. The original film is a masterclass in action choreography, but the oil fight stands out. Slicked up, Frank effortlessly evades his enemies before taking them out with bicycle pedals and spinning heel kicks.
The Fate of the Furious
Deckard Shaw's transformation from villain to hero in the Fast and Furious series was initially contentious, but his redemption arc solidified his place. His airborne rescue of Dom and Elena's son in The Fate of the Furious is both thrilling and humorous, blending action with comedy in a way only Statham can.
The Expendables
In the Expendables franchise, Statham's Lee Christmas shines among Hollywood's toughest. His basketball court beatdown in the first film is swift and brutal, showcasing his ability to handle multiple opponents with ease.
Spy
In the comedy Spy, Statham's portrayal of Rick Ford, the unkillable secret agent, is both hilarious and memorable. His tales of surviving impossible situations, like driving a car off a freeway onto a train while on fire, highlight his comedic timing and ability to steal scenes.
Transporter 2
The barrel roll in Transporter 2 is iconic. Frank Martin casually flips his Audi to dislodge a bomb, showcasing his cool under pressure and mastery of physics.
Crank: High Voltage
After surviving a fall from a helicopter, Chev Chelios faces new challenges in Crank: High Voltage. His hallucination of fighting as a giant kaiju version of himself at a power station is both surreal and a testament to the film's wild creativity.
Snatch
Topping the list is Snatch, where Statham delivers memorable lines and performances among Hollywood heavyweights. His role as Turkish, with lines like “What is a gun doing in your trousers?” “For protection.” “Protection from what? Zee Germans?” showcases his ability to blend humor with intensity, cementing his place in cinematic history.
