After being set up and sent to the world's most secure prison,
a structural-security authority tries to escape with help from inside. ACTION
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Escape Plan (2013)Directed by Mikael Håfström
Written by Miles Chapman and Jason Keller Starring Sylvester Stallone, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jim Caviezel, Faran Tahir, Amy Ryan, Sam Neill, Vincent D'Onofrio, Vinnie Jones, 50 Cent |
Escape Plan is an exciting action thriller starring two of Hollywood's biggest action heroes, Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger. Surprisingly, the film is not terrible. In fact, it's actually quite engaging, with Stallone's character Ray Breslin being an expert in prison structure who breaks out of prisons for a living.
The design of the super-prison, the Tomb, is reminiscent of Face/Off, with the world's most dangerous criminals being locked away in the middle of the ocean. Schwarzenegger's chemistry with Stallone is spot-on, which is cool since the two hated each other in the 80's. I would also say that this film features one of Ah-nold's best performances. He gave it his all and his diversion scene in solitary where he breaks down and starts praying in German is one of the best scenes of his career. This film also had a killer villain, with good guy Jim Caviezel as the sadistic Warden Hobbes, who is clearly having a good time. I don't consider Escape Plan a misfire or anything like that. It may not be the best of Stallone or Schwarzenegger's films, but it certainly has the spirit. It's almost like this film was made to unite fans of both stars. I thought this film was great and believe more people would enjoy it if they gave it a chance. |
Teaming up two of cinema's biggest action hero icons turned out to be a very good idea. This was a generally fun movie with a serviceable plot and plenty of winks and nods to the two stars screen history. Fans of both Schwarzenegger and Stallone should be pleased.
Speaking of which, these two action heroes share an amazing amount of chemistry and seem to be having tons of fun. There was also a ton of references to their previous work that will be sure to please fans. Another standout in the cast is Jim Caviezel as Warden Hobbes. He is downright evil and chews up the scene every time he's on. Vinnie Jones seems to be having fun in another tough guy role, bringing in his usual charm and charisma. It was also nice to see Sam Neill as a doctor for the prison. While this film won't rank among either main stars' classic films, this is still a huge amount of fun. The actors are clearly having a blast, the story is simple enough, and the action is great. Fans of 80s action should be happy with this one. |