Hummingbird

Jason Statham is Joseph Smith, a colonel that has gone AWOL after his last mission. Running from the police, as well as his past, has led him to a life on the streets. While escaping from some thugs, Joey literally drops into someone else’s apartment. As luck would have it, the owner will be away for months; more than enough time for Joey to get fit and healthy again. Things are starting to look up, until his only friend from the streets turns up dead in the Thames. Typical Stath-style, he turns his unique set of skills towards retribution. The only one he can trust to help him in this is Sister Cristina, a nun who is keeping his whereabouts a secret from the police.

The film may sound like a pretty standard set-up for a Stath film, but is actually very different from the usual offering. Of past Stath films, Hummingbird is probably most similar in style to Blitz; a film with action in it but not an ‘action film’ per se. Joey is traumatised and struggling to deal with the experiences he’s had as a soldier, which really gives Jason Statham a chance to broaden his palette. Cristina (Agata Buzek) is similarly damaged by the same reasons, which led her to becoming a nun. All of the supporting cast are particularly strong, including Vicky McClure (This is England), who brings a very raw and convincing anger to Joey’s ex-wife.

For those who want to watch The Stath stretch himself as well as his muscles, Hummingbird is highly recommended.

Natalie Tyldesley