Having journeyed through the first two installments, I recently concluded my revisit to the original Transporter trilogy with Transporter 3 (2008). Entering this film, I carried a cautionary note. Whispers online and from fellow action movie enthusiasts suggested this sequel might not live up to the high-octane standards set by Transporter 2. Prepared for a potential dip in quality, I pressed play, and to my surprise, found myself thoroughly entertained.
Perhaps my expectations were simply calibrated just right, but Transporter 3 resonated with me. The action returns to the familiar European backdrop, Jason Statham delivers his signature Frank Martin performance with unwavering precision, and this third chapter introduces a compelling twist to the series’ core premise: delivering a package from point A to point B. This time, however, Frank is tasked with this dangerous mission while bearing a powerful explosive device strapped to his wrist – mirrored by another on the package itself. These devices are set to detonate should he stray too far from his vehicle. We already know the transporter profession is fraught with peril, but now Frank Martin must navigate his assignment constantly tethered to his car, acutely aware that straying too far could result in a catastrophic explosion. This ingenious plot element injects a fresh layer of tension, easily forgotten until a critical moment jolts you with the realization: “Oh no, the bomb!”
Jason Statham as Frank Martin and Natalya Rudakova as Valentina in Transporter 3 (2008).
Another engaging aspect of Transporter 3 is observing Frank’s interactions with his latest “package,” Valentina (portrayed by Natalya Rudakova). In certain respects, their dynamic echoes the interplay between Frank and Lai from the original Transporter film, albeit with more dialogue and a significantly more volatile package. Valentina frequently tests Frank’s patience, pushing him to his limits, a prime example being her drug use just before a high-speed car chase erupts. However, one element of Frank and Valentina’s relationship arc feels somewhat rushed: the speed at which their connection deepens. Since becoming aware of this common trope in action films, such rapid relationship development often detracts from my viewing experience. Yet, while noticeable, this aspect doesn’t diminish my overall enjoyment of Transporter 3, which remains a highly entertaining action movie.
One final, slightly jarring note in Transporter 3 pertains to some of Frank’s automotive feats. While I confess limited expertise in automotive mechanics, certain scenarios stretch the bounds of plausibility. The notion of a car restarting effortlessly after being submerged in a lake seems improbable. Similarly, the odds of landing a vehicle squarely atop a moving train defy logic. Acknowledging the film’s genre and inherent suspension of disbelief, this particular sequence momentarily disrupted my immersion, warranting a mention.
Despite being released over a decade ago in 2008, Transporter 3 reinforces my desire to see Jason Statham reprise the iconic role of Frank Martin once more (let’s collectively disregard the reboot). I’m eager to hear your thoughts on Transporter 3 in the comments below. Have a great day!
See also:
My Thoughts on: Transporter 2 (2005)
My Thoughts on: The Transporter (2002)
Film Reviews
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