By Jason Statham stars as Mason in the new Action/Thriller “Shelter” which provides all the action that his fans expect with a more emotional performance than is usual for this genre.
Mason lives a solitary life on a non-functioning lighthouse on a remote Scottish Isle. His only contact with the outside world is via the radio that he monitors for weather and with a weekly supply drop which is left in a boathouse, so he does not need to interact with others.
When the delivery girl is injured in a tragic accident, and with nobody else to care for her, Mason reluctantly takes her in and nurses her back to health.
While going into town to get supplies, he triggers an alert on an off the books MI6 program and is targeted for immediate elimination. He quickly dispatches the squad sent to eliminate him and soon finds himself on the run with the girl trying to stay ahead of those trying very hard to kill him.
Mason must find a way to save the girl and end the threat against them in a situation where the danger lurks around every corner and grows with each passing moment.
The movie evolves from the usual mix of endless bad guys being cut down by the strong and silent Statham character. We are given the reasons for his solitude and reluctance to get involved and we see a character evolve into a situation where the well-being of another is more important than their own survival.
There is plenty of action, but it is spaced out and falls in line with the characters and their situation without being over-the-top.
The pacing of the film moves when needed but allows time for the characters to develop a relationship that underscores their actions and motivations.
With a strong supporting cast, “Shelter” moves beyond the standard genre offerings and stands out as a memorable and enjoyable experience.
3.5 stars out of 5
