Crank: High Voltage (2009)
Crank: High Voltage (2009) pushes the boundaries of both action and sci-fi as Jason Statham returns as Chev Chelios, a man with an indestructible will to survive. In this fast-paced sequel to Crank, Chev’s heart is stolen by a Chinese mobster, and it’s replaced with an artificial one that requires regular jolts of electricity to keep beating. The film takes place in an absurd, adrenaline-pumped version of reality, where Chev has to constantly electrocute himself to stay alive while chasing down the criminals who took his heart.
Statham fully embraces the insanity of the plot, delivering a performance that’s both intense and comedic. The film’s high-energy style, with rapid cuts, over-the-top violence, and wild stunts, perfectly matches Chev’s constant need for speed. While the film doesn’t delve into deep scientific concepts, the premise of an artificial heart needing external power gives it a sci-fi edge, blending biological and mechanical elements in an outrageous way.
The movie’s frenetic pacing, outrageous set pieces, and Statham’s commitment to the role make Crank: High Voltage a unique entry in his filmography. It’s a non-stop thrill ride that embraces its absurdity, offering fans of both sci-fi and action a wild experience. Themes of survival and humanity’s reliance on technology are explored, albeit in the most extreme, exaggerated ways possible.