With the somewhat lukewarm response that followed 2005’s Ice Cube starring xXx sequel, it seemed the future of the would-be action franchise had come to a premature end. Twelve years later, with the unparalleled success of a certain other Vin Diesel starring franchise, Paramount have lured back the series’ original star in the hope of capitalizing on his recent resurgence, with xXx: Return Of Xander Cage.
Let’s get one thing straight right from the off, Xander Cage is not a great film by any stretch of the imagination, but at least it knows exactly what it is: a big dumb action movie that doesn’t take itself seriously. That’s more than you can say for a lot of the cynical, predictable excrement Hollywood so often forces down our throats these days.
Whilst the film has many faults, diversity certainly isn’t one of them. It counts three Asian characters (Donnie Yen being the obvious MVP) and a slew of strong females (including the ‘so hot right’ Ruby Rose) among its core cast. It also features some truly outrageous action (including a zero gravity gunfight that abandons all rules of physics) and even tries to convey its very own message (“Why can’t we all just get along?”).
“When the end credits roll, you’re left wondering just what it all adds up to.”
In adopting the Fast & The Furious formula, Paramount have resurrected a franchise many thought dead. If you enjoy that series particular brand of harmless fun, you’ll likely get a kick out of this. But more discerning audience members will be disappointed with a movie that can never quite decide whether its a funny action film or an action packed comedy.