‘Killer Elite’ is the sort of movie Australia used to make in the 1970’s. Taking its cue from ‘The Man from Hong Kong’, it attempts to mix a globe-trotting romp with a uniquely local flavour. Whilst matching it with rough and ready action, ‘Killer Elite’ surpasses it in terms of mediocre plotting. Almost entirely shot in Melbourne and based on a Ranulph Fiennes novel, it showcases the technical expertise for which the industry is renowned.
When Danny’s (Jason Statham) friend Hunter (Robert DeNiro) is captured, he accepts an offer he doesn’t want. As a former mercenary, he is forced to arrange an assassination of 3 SAS agents so his colleague may live. His mission captures the attention of enforcer Spike (Clive Owen). Matching skills with the best in the field, Danny searches for a way out in the hope of returning to the safer life he craves.
Apparently the secret SAS organisation protecting its own in ‘Killer Elite’ actually exists. If only this intriguing-sounding element was used effectively as this overly long adventure yarn lacks any stylish flair. Plodding from one episodic sequence to the next, there is never a sense of urgency making for a fast moving tale. This poor handling highlights Gary McKendry’s leaden direction and Matt Sherring’s vastly over-written script with a generally interesting story given short shrift.
Headlined by the trio of Statham, Owen and DeNiro one would have expected more. Sadly their unfocussed performances dilute any genuine tension with the admittedly well filmed action devoid of spark. It is easy becoming lost in the increasingly convoluted tale with the constant struggle between realism and spectacular hi-jinx jarring. There’s a very good movie in there somewhere but the whole simply doesn’t gel.
Devoid of any dynamic flavour or excitement ‘Killer Elite’ isn’t terribly impressive. Although having potential most is wasted with only the cinematography and landscape registering on the radar.
Movie Review Rating 4 / 10
Movie Review by Patrick Moore
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