The current “Killer Elite” is unrelated to the l975 version but an adaptation of Ranulph Fiennes’ book “The Feather Men.” A true account, the heavy-on-machismo, globetrotting adventure focuses on a former assassin of a Special Forces unit who’s disinclined to be recalled to active duty. The ever durable, dynamic Jason Statham plays Danny Bryce, an ex-soldier-of-fortune. His tutor Hunter (Robert DeNiro, memorable though underutilized) has been captured and will be freed if Danny agrees to carry out a contract killing. If he refuses, Hunter will die. A key man is Danny’s nemesis, the mustachioed Spike (Clive Owen), and the two will have to engage in a battle of cunning, strength and wills.
Director Gary McKendry presents action hero Statham in a surefire, action-packed B-flick showcasing his physical prowess. Some of the eye-opening, hard-to-believe stunts are well executed and more preposterous than they seem possible (i.e.) tied to a chair, a character manages to flip it over, knock down an opponent, and somersault out a window landing in a safety zone. How’d he know to do it, and what lies beneath? Who cares? Supporting players amidst the violence include Dominic Purcell and Aden Young as Danny’s fellow commandos. For the time allotted, it’s fun watching DeNiro in action mode in one of his better roles of late. When Danny and Spike lock horns and go head-to-head- toe-to-toe is more of the same. Disbelief aside, chuck logic out the window, sit back (or, at the edge of the seat), and enjoy the testosterone-laden actioner.
Image Source: Mattfind
