‘The Beekeeper’ - Overall good time

Throughout the annals of film history there have been many films like The Beekeeper. The Statham-led action revenge story takes a man of few words and even fewer qualms regarding morality.

As a former operative in the secret organisation that dispatches violent peacekeepers who make the Marine Corps look like kiddie pool lifeguards, Statham’s character Adam Clay takes his previous title of beekeeper literally in his retirement. He’d like nothing more than to deal in more honey than blood, but unfortunately, his elderly neighbour and caretaker falls prey to an online scam, losing her life savings in the process. The beekeeper must rise once again, to protect his hive.

That protection comes forth in a manner most entertaining. The profound predilection for dispatching punishment onto predators seems to come naturally to Mr Clay, whose kills go beyond mere disposing of his foes. Instead, he relishes the moment, giving his prey a final fear, and the audience, satisfaction.

Yet despite his creativity, Statham plays the role without a smile. His constant scowl evokes a young Clint Eastwood, driven by his intense perception of right and wrong. His black-and-white thinking calls him to defy that which society deems correct, and appoint himself judge, jury and executioner.

Statham brings across the character with fervour, but the rest of the cast is akin to window dressing. Josh Hutcherson plays an amalgamation of every manosphere tech bro born with a silver spoon in his gullet, who is undoubtedly deserving of hate. Behind this tech twerp is Jeremy Irons as the beleaguered, yet dubious former CIA official, who is compelling even if he seems bored. Outside of their despicable villainy, The Beekeeper struggles to maintain attention without its star on screen.

Thankfully, The Beekeeper seems to be aware of this, as most of the movie features the action, albeit with a hint more drama than one might expect. Statham’s care for the Phylicia Rashad’s victimised character is apparent. Yet the dramatic elements should fool no one. The Beekeeper is in many ways an outright comedy, with more bee puns than you may be able to stomach.

Though its genre may be saturated, The Beekeeper remains distinct in its presentation. Statham, Rashad, Irons, and Hutcherson play their parts well and lend credence to the film’s incredulous nature. While it may have a discordant tone here and there, it’s an overall good time that deserves a watch.

Rating: Half Price

Damian Levy is a reviewer and podcaster for damianmichaelmovies.com.