Movie Review : The Expendables

Ok, first I have to say that I have only watched this movie through one time so there might be amendments at a later date. Now that that is out of the way, on with the review.

Right out of the cuff you're hit in the face with over the top action and classic 80's action movie humor, which isn't a bad thing. Unfortunately with the mega star cast and the lack of trailer antagonist protagonist set up, the viewer is left to figure out which star is on which side of the fence. It doesn't help that the movie length is so short you're literally left to figure it out as it goes. I will say this, none of the stars that did sign on must have had egos because even the normal headline stars are filling mere walk on roles. So if you expected a long Schwarzenegger Stallone love fest you will be disappointed, very. In fact the Schwarzenegger, Stallone, Willis scene is just a couple of minutes and the only scene that eludes to past movie/friendships/outside careers. Yes there is no "I must break you" mentioned between Dolph and Stallone, a missed opportunity I assure you.

Now that my only real complaint is out of the way, on with the good. Its a modern day over the top, shit blowing up, cheesy puns, slug-fest and its beautiful. Anybody going into this movie expecting a cinematic masterpiece is both sadly mistaken and a fool. Take this movie for what it is, an action flick meant to entertain you for its hour and thirty minute run time, and it excels ten fold. Eric Roberts, yet again, portrays a heartless baddie that you want to see crushed. Stallone plays, the role he perfected, a lovable loser that just seems to pull it off in the end. Plus they're surrounded by great action stars of yesterday and today that can hold there own in the acting arena.

There is also genuinely touching moment when Mickey Rourke is talking to Stallone about his past sins and failures. Which was unexpected, and sadly a little out of place. Really if this movie had been in the two plus hour time frame it could have been epic, and I'm talking Terminator, Rambo, Die Hard epic. You know the movies that made it possible for this movie to happen.

Its short time frame does tend to make it feel rushed and also doesn't let you get to know any of the characters enough to feel any genuine emotion for them or their cause. While I wont expect it, a sequel could be on the T2 scale of awesome if it ever happens. Meaning it could make its predecessor seem like chump change.

All in all I give this movie five and a half stars out of a possible ten. Not gonna win any awards, but will find its way into cult movie lore.

- Stay strange my friends.
Jesse K.

The Expendables