Redemption

Directed by Steven Knight, Redemption follows a damaged special-forces soldier (Jason Statham’s Joey) as he attempts to avenge a close friend’s brutal death. It’s stirring subject matter that’s employed to surprisingly subdued effect by Knight, as the filmmaker, armed with his own screenplay, delivers a methodically-paced and perpetually low-key endeavor that gets off to a rather underwhelming, bumpy start – with the arms-length atmosphere perpetuated by a narrative that takes just a little too long to wholeheartedly get going. It’s clear, then, that Redemption improves considerably as it progresses into an increasingly involving midsection anchored by Statham’s commanding, engrossing performance, and there’s little doubt, as well, that the watchable vibe is heightened by the ongoing appearance of attention-grabbing scenes and sequences (eg Joey, armed with only a spoon, effortlessly takes down three goons). And while certain plot elements are less effective (and impressive) than others, Redemption builds towards a surprisingly downbeat conclusion that ultimately serves the story and characters quite well – which does, in the end, cement the picture’s place as a strong effort that’s hardly the high-octane actioner one might’ve anticipated based on the premise and Statham’s presence.

*** out of ****