Aging actors cash in
By Estela FuentesThe Guardsman
In an age when movies rely upon computer generated scenes and digital enhancement to fabricate action, “The Expendables” throws technology out the window and goes back to the basics.All scenes were filmed on set, not using a green screen. The actors did their ownstunts. The movie hit theaters Aug. 13 and has made over $82 million in box officerevenues.The Expendables, or the retirees as they’ve been dubbed, still hold a strong onscreenpresence. The movie revolves around Sylvester Stallone’s character, Barney Ross, whois offered $5 million for his crew of mercenaries carry out a mission. Ross and his partner Lee Christmas - played by Jason Statham - begin surveillance and realize it’s a suicide mission. Even for $5 million, it isn’t worth it.But Ross ends up falling for a girl and decides he will risk it. And, as the saying goes, “once a team always a team,” his trusty crew comes along for the ride.The film gives an opportunity to see some old favorites in action. It featuresJet Li, Mickey Rourke, Dolph Lundgren and more. If you like David and Goliath analogies, then Li and Lundgren will make your day.The film’s plot is slow and redundant, which makes for a few dull moments. But theonscreen relationship among the actors, plus all the action, keeps you on the edgeof your seat.The film could be a good compromise for individuals debating between action or drama. “The Expendables” is a grab-bag of movie genres with some corny jokes and punch lines thrown in for good measure.
