Frank “The Transporter” Martin (Statham) is the reluctant bag man for corporate baddy Johnson (Knepper)…but the difference is this time he’s in lurve.
It’s a bit of a soppy departure for the taciturn hardman. The object of his inscrutable desire is copper-headed Valentina, a surprise passenger in an unwanted drive across southern Europe.
Powering from Marseille to Budapest in his souped-up Audi, the main reason for keeping an appointment is a titanium bracelet that will explode if he strays more than fifty metres from his motor.
Frank is the reluctant recruit of Johnson, a shady cove who wants to make sure that a European environment minister (Krabbe) will allow the docking of eight container ships carrying a deadly toxin.
So Frank isn’t taking the scenic route. His trip is regularly punctuated by violent run-ins with Johnson’s goons, who all feel the rough side of his feet, and a Mercedes-full of wrong ‘uns.
He’s also got to put up with the mysterious Valentina (newcomer Rudakova), a Ukrainian nympho in a spangly dress who keeps reciting lists of gourmet food.
Director Olivier Megaton, a former grafitti artist, (crazy name, crazy guy) keeps one eye on the cool camerawork, another on the impressive, over-the-top stunts. Although that Statham manages to keep a straight-face through this typically bonkers Transporter instalment is just as commendable!
Tim Evans
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