Review of The Expendables 4 (2023)

The Expendables 4 (2023), directed by Scott Waugh, is the latest installment in the action-packed, star-studded franchise that has become a haven for fans of explosive stunts, nostalgic action heroes, and larger-than-life combat sequences. Featuring an ensemble cast led by Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham, and a slew of action legends, The Expendables 4 is unapologetically over-the-top and filled with the kinds of action sequences that fans have come to expect from the series.

The plot picks up with Barney Ross (Stallone) and his team of mercenaries facing off against a new, high-tech, and deadly villain, who is threatening global security. This time, the stakes are higher than ever as the team must confront a powerful arms dealer named Rahmat (Iko Uwais), who has developed a weapon that could change the course of modern warfare. Barney assembles his team of Expendables, including Lee Christmas (Statham), to stop this threat, leading to a series of intense action set pieces that feature gunfights, hand-to-hand combat, and daring rescues.

The film largely stays true to the franchise’s roots: it’s a big, loud, and relentless action spectacle with plenty of explosions, martial arts, and heroic one-liners. If you’re a fan of the previous films, you’ll feel right at home, as The Expendables 4 delivers more of what has made the series so popular: a classic throwback to ’80s and ’90s action films, with Stallone and company leading the charge.

Sylvester Stallone’s character, Barney Ross, continues to be the heart of the series, though this film marks a shift in focus. It’s clear that the passing of the torch is happening, with Jason Statham’s Lee Christmas emerging as the central figure. Statham, with his trademark charm and impressive action chops, steps up to fill the shoes of the lead character more than ever before. His chemistry with the team and his combat skills remain a strong point in the film.

New additions to the cast include the action star Iko Uwais, best known for his roles in The Raid films, who brings his martial arts expertise to the role of the villain. His performance is fierce and physical, and he adds an extra layer of intensity to the film. While the villain itself doesn’t stand out as a memorable character, Uwais’s fight sequences are a highlight, showcasing his impressive martial arts skills in well-choreographed combat scenes.

The action sequences are where The Expendables 4 truly shines. From explosive gunfights to hand-to-hand combat, the film doesn’t skimp on delivering the kind of high-octane action that fans crave. The set pieces are thrilling and often absurd in their scale, with vehicles flying through the air, helicopters exploding, and fistfights that feel as though they could level entire cities. The film doesn’t take itself too seriously, and this self-aware tone helps it maintain its fun factor.

However, while the action is plentiful, The Expendables 4 struggles with some of the same issues that plagued previous entries in the series. The plot is simple, predictable, and lacks depth, serving merely as a backdrop to the action. Some characters are underdeveloped, with little more than a few lines to their name before they’re thrust into another chaotic fight scene. The dialogue can feel clichéd at times, with plenty of groan-worthy one-liners and moments that are more about spectacle than substance.

The film also suffers from pacing issues. While the action is intense, there are moments where the plot slows down, and the film stretches its thin narrative for too long. Some scenes feel repetitive, and there’s a sense that the movie could have been trimmed down for a more focused experience.

In conclusion, The Expendables 4 is exactly what you expect from the franchise: a loud, fun, and action-heavy movie that doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s a film for fans of the genre, offering up the usual mix of iconic action stars, over-the-top fight scenes, and ridiculous stunts. While it doesn’t break any new ground and has some pacing and character issues, it’s still an entertaining watch for anyone looking for a nostalgic, adrenaline-pumping ride. With Jason Statham stepping into the spotlight, the film successfully keeps the franchise alive for future installments, while continuing to deliver the action-packed chaos that made The Expendables famous.