We have a new action clip coming from director Steven Knight’s latest film, Redemption. The clip pretty much shows some of what Statham is best known for on screen, which includes screen fighting, particularly since he is capable of doing most of his own stunts, generally.
Ironically, in a recent interview posted at Scotsman.com, Statham suggests the film is anything but what fans suspect it to be. He confesses to the Edinburgh Evening News stating, “I make a lot of films that don’t have much depth to them – they’re more like popcorn movies. I’ve been hungry for something like this for some time, where I can show more emotion. When this came my way, I jumped up and down,”. He continues throughout the interview by saying that even though he himself enjoys the physicality and fighting elements of the character he plays, Knight’s film is “not a stunt extravaganza”, describing the film as more focused on poignance, drama and the depth of the relationships he shares in the film.
In further discussing the relative societal importance of his character, Statham also discussed the research he did with the production, visiting homeless charities, speaking to ex-soldiers, doctors and veterans about their experiences. “We’re playing heroes, and it’s great to actually play a guy that used to be a hero.” he says. “These are the real heroes of our culture and society. It’s a privilege to play one so you can’t lose sight of the good they do and the commitment they have.”
In other words, while the film does contain its own share of action sequences, do not disillusion yourself with the notion that Redemption is anything like what you are used to if you are solely an action fan, especially from a director whose most recent background in screenwriting includes the 2006 romantic biopic drama, Amazing Grace, and the 2007 crime drama, Eastern Promises. Granted, that may all change depending on Knight’s career choices down the line. But for now, there is no excuse why anyone should come out of the theater feeling sold short by a film with an actor who actually wants to involve himself as an *actor* from time to time, which is always a good thing.
Redemption, (a.k.a. Hummingbird -UK release- and Crazy Joe -France release-) stars Statham as a war-torn homeless veteran whose return home to London from Afghanistan takes him on a path from healing to confliction and struggle, and ultimately, revenge. The film also stars Agata Buzek, Vicky McClure, Benedict Wong, David Bradley and Siobhan Hewlett, and is slated for North American theatrical and digital release on June 28, 2013, courtesy of Lionsgate.
Check out the action clip, courtesy of Beyond Hollywood.
