Jason Statham Shows Everyone Who is The Master of Classic Action Movies

Movies like Crank (2006) and its 2009 sequel, Crank: High Voltage, are a rare breed these days. They’re audacious, outrageous, and so far-fetched that it’s hard to pinpoint their inspiration—whether it’s from sci-fi, Saturday morning cartoons, or something even more outlandish. Available for streaming on Peacock, these films ditch conventional storytelling in favor of delivering firsthand thrills, and they certainly don’t disappoint in that department.

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Both films follow the adventures of Chev Chelios, played by Jason Statham, a hitman targeted by his vengeful underworld rivals with outlandish schemes that essentially serve as ticking time bombs. In Crank, Chev is injected with a substance that slows his heart rate, leading to a race against time to keep his adrenaline pumping. In Crank: High Voltage, the stakes escalate even further as Chev’s heart is replaced with an artificial device that requires regular electric shocks to keep him alive.

While neither Crank film broke box office records, they cultivated a dedicated fanbase that appreciated their fearless approach to filmmaking and willingness to push the boundaries of good taste. Similar to the irreverence of films like There’s Something About Mary, the Crank movies gleefully disregard cinematic norms, including the audience’s suspension of disbelief in Statham’s intense performances.

As for the possibility of a third Crank film, there has been sporadic talk among the creators, including Statham himself, expressing interest in reviving the franchise. However, recent years have seen less discussion about Crank 3. Mark Neveldine and Brian Taylor, the writing-directing duo behind the first two films, have hinted at ideas for a sequel but have yet to develop a script.

Taylor has acknowledged the challenges of making another Crank movie in today’s cultural climate, citing the previous films’ politically incorrect nature as a potential obstacle. He’s adamant about not compromising the franchise’s unique style for the sake of financial gain, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the series’ creative integrity.

Despite the lack of recent developments, Taylor’s subsequent projects, such as the SYFY series Happy!, demonstrate his continued commitment to producing boundary-pushing entertainment. While the future of the Crank franchise remains uncertain, fans can still enjoy the first two films, available for streaming on Peacock.

So, whether or not a third Crank film materializes, the existing entries ensure that the franchise goes out with a bang. Catch both Crank and Crank: High Voltage on Peacock, and mark your calendars for May 19 to see Statham return to action in Fast X.