Jason Statham is a true action star, known for his intense roles and impressive stunts. From his beginnings as a competitive diver to becoming one of Hollywood’s most bankable action heroes, Statham’s career spans over two decades of thrilling performances. With his signature tough-guy demeanor and martial arts skills, he has delivered memorable roles that resonate with fans of adrenaline-pumping cinema. Here, we’ve ranked his 21 best movies and TV performances, showcasing his range and undeniable screen presence.
21. Transporter 2 (2005)
Transporter 2, Jason Statham returns as Frank Martin, the highly skilled “transporter” with a strict set of rules and an unshakeable calm under pressure. This time, Frank has taken a legitimate job as a chauffeur for the young son of a powerful Miami family. However, his world turns upside down when the boy is kidnapped by a dangerous cartel, forcing Frank to abandon his strict rules and dive into action to rescue him.
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20. War (2007)
In War, Statham takes on the role of FBI agent John Crawford, who seeks revenge after his partner is killed by a notorious assassin played by Jet Li. The film features intense action sequences and a cat-and-mouse chase that sees Statham in peak form, displaying his martial arts prowess and gritty determination. While the plot may veer into familiar territory, Statham’s commanding presence and physical commitment elevate his performance, making it an enjoyable action flick.
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19. The One (2001)
Statham had a supporting role in The One, a sci-fi action film also starring Jet Li. As an interdimensional law enforcement officer, Statham brought his signature gruffness to the character while assisting in the chase across multiple universes. Although not the leading role, his intensity and charisma added to the film’s energetic pace and offered a glimpse of his future as a prominent action star.
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18. Crank: High Voltage (2009)
Returning as hitman Chev Chelios, Statham ups the ante in Crank: High Voltage, a sequel that takes absurdity to new heights. His character must keep his adrenaline pumping to stay alive, leading to some of the wildest stunts and action sequences of his career. Statham fully embraces the film’s over-the-top style, bringing a frenetic energy that matches the movie’s relentless pace and making it a cult favorite among action enthusiasts.
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17. Chaos (2005)
In Chaos, Statham stars as Quentin Conners, a detective suspended after a hostage situation gone wrong. When a string of bank robberies linked to a chaotic theory emerges, he is brought back to the force. Statham’s performance is layered, showcasing a mix of vulnerability and grit, and his chemistry with co-star Ryan Phillippe adds depth to this otherwise straightforward crime thriller.
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16. The Meg 2: The Trench (2023)
In The Meg 2: The Trench, Jason Statham returns as Jonas Taylor, now an environmentalist committed to protecting the ocean from threats both natural and human-made. This time, the stakes are higher as he faces not just one, but a whole pack of prehistoric Megalodons lurking in the deep trenches of the ocean. Statham amps up the action with even more daring stunts and intense underwater sequences that keep audiences on the edge of their seats. His portrayal of Jonas showcases a man caught between the desire to save the world and the thrill of tackling danger head-on. With bigger challenges, explosive action, and jaw-dropping visuals, Statham’s performance anchors the film, reminding us why he’s the go-to actor for high-stakes adventure.
15. The Mechanic (2011)
Statham takes on the role of Arthur Bishop, a meticulous hitman who specializes in making his hits look like accidents. The film features well-choreographed action scenes and Statham’s trademark cool demeanor, but it’s his portrayal of the conflicted killer struggling with loyalty and vengeance that adds a touch of nuance to the film. He brings both the physicality and emotion required for the character, making The Mechanic more than just a standard action movie.
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14. Homefront (2013)
In Homefront, Statham plays Phil Broker, an ex-DEA agent who moves to a quiet town with his daughter, only to face local drug dealers led by James Franco. Statham’s portrayal of a father willing to go to any lengths to protect his child brings a personal touch to the action, grounding the film in a way that resonates with viewers. His ability to convey both tenderness and ferocity adds depth to the character and enhances the film’s dramatic stakes.
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13. Safe (2012)
Statham stars as Luke Wright, a former cage fighter who protects a young girl being targeted by both the Triads and corrupt police. His action scenes are tightly executed, showcasing his hand-to-hand combat skills and dedication to the role. More than just an action hero, Statham brings a sense of humanity to his character, adding emotional weight to the high-octane sequences.
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12. The Expendables 2 (2012)
As Lee Christmas, Statham shines in The Expendables 2, delivering sharp wit and slick knife skills in this ensemble action blockbuster. His dynamic with Sylvester Stallone’s Barney Ross provides some of the film’s standout moments, as the two trade quips and take down enemies together. Statham’s energetic performance not only matches but often outshines the star-studded cast, proving his worth as a top-tier action star.
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11. The Transporter (2002)
In The Transporter, Statham plays Frank Martin, a highly-skilled driver for hire who specializes in transporting dangerous cargo. His breakout role, it’s where audiences first saw him perform jaw-dropping stunts and combat scenes with incredible precision. Statham’s calm demeanor and calculated approach to his character made Frank Martin an instant icon, leading to a franchise that cemented his status as a leading man in the action genre.
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10. The Fate of the Furious (2017)
Statham returns as Deckard Shaw in The Fate of the Furious, switching sides to assist Dominic Toretto’s crew. The film gives Statham plenty of opportunities to showcase his action chops, especially during a standout airplane sequence where he fights off enemies while protecting a baby. His witty dialogue and effortless charisma add a fresh dynamic to the ensemble, making his character a fan favorite.
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9. Hobbs & Shaw (2019)
In this Fast & Furious spin-off, Statham teams up with Dwayne Johnson for a high-octane adventure. Playing Deckard Shaw, he brings both humor and intensity, complementing Johnson’s larger-than-life persona. The chemistry between the two leads results in plenty of laughs and epic fight scenes, solidifying Hobbs & Shaw as one of the franchise’s most entertaining installments.
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8. Spy (2015)
Statham shows off his comedic skills in Spy, playing Rick Ford, a hilariously inept secret agent who takes himself too seriously. The film allows him to poke fun at his tough-guy image, delivering some of the funniest moments while still holding his own in the action scenes. His deadpan humor and ability to turn every line into a laugh make his role in Spy a standout.
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7. The Bank Job (2008)
In The Bank Job, Statham takes on a more dramatic role, playing Terry Leather, a small-time crook who finds himself involved in a heist with far-reaching consequences. The film is based on a true story, and Statham brings a gritty realism to his character, offering one of his most nuanced performances. His ability to convey a mix of determination and vulnerability adds a layer of complexity to this gripping crime thriller.
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6. The Meg (2018)
In The Meg, Jason Statham dives into the deep blue as Jonas Taylor, a skilled rescue diver with a history of facing impossible odds. When a prehistoric, 75-foot-long shark, known as the Megalodon, resurfaces from the depths of the ocean, Jonas is the only one with the expertise and courage to stop it. Statham brings a unique blend of intensity and humor to the role, handling both the action and the absurdity of fighting a giant shark with his trademark cool. His character’s gritty resilience and steely determination are as massive as the creature he’s up against, making for thrilling underwater battles and suspenseful moments. The Meg offers a perfect mix of action and horror with a tongue-in-cheek edge, proving Statham can tackle even the most monstrous of challenges with charisma.
5. Snatch (2000)
In Snatch, Statham plays Turkish, a small-time boxing promoter who gets caught up in the world of underground crime. The film showcases his knack for dry humor and sharp dialogue, setting him apart from his more action-heavy roles. Working under director Guy Ritchie, Statham gives a charismatic performance that adds depth to the film’s eclectic ensemble.
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4. The Beekeeper (2024)
In The Beekeeper, Statham stars as Mr. Clay, a former operative with a dark past who’s been living a quiet life as a beekeeper. When he discovers that his close friend has been swindled by a fraudulent organization, Clay is drawn back into a world of violence and revenge, taking justice into his own hands. Statham brings a unique intensity to this vigilante thriller, portraying Clay as a man haunted by his past but unafraid to confront it when those he cares about are harmed. His performance exudes a sense of quiet fury, balancing both action-packed sequences and quieter, reflective moments. As he takes on corrupt corporations with his bare fists and strategic planning, Statham’s portrayal of Clay gives a fresh take on the vigilante genre, making The Beekeeper a tense and engaging journey into redemption and retribution.
3. Wrath of Man (2021)
In Wrath of Man, Statham teams up with director Guy Ritchie for a gritty revenge thriller, portraying H, a mysterious man with a deadly skill set who joins an armored truck company in Los Angeles. While H’s purpose initially seems routine, it quickly becomes clear that he has a hidden agenda fueled by a personal vendetta. Statham delivers one of his most intense performances, blending his hard-hitting action skills with a deeper, more brooding character driven by loss and vengeance. His cold, calculated demeanor keeps audiences guessing as he reveals piece by piece the motivation behind his mission. The film’s non-linear structure and gritty atmosphere allow Statham to showcase a layered and complex character, making Wrath of Man one of his most compelling roles in recent years.
2. Crank (2006)
Statham’s portrayal of Chev Chelios, a hitman on a mission to keep his heart pumping by any means necessary, is one of his most outrageous and exhilarating performances. Crank allows him to fully embrace the absurdity of the premise, delivering a frenetic and adrenaline-fueled performance that never lets up. His commitment to the film’s wild energy makes it an unforgettable entry in his filmography.
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1. Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels (1998)
Statham’s debut film, Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels is a classic British crime comedy that put him on the map. Playing a streetwise character named Bacon, he quickly established himself as a compelling actor with a knack for witty dialogue and a natural screen presence. His performance in this Guy Ritchie-directed film laid the foundation for his career, displaying the charm, toughness, and humor that would become his trademarks.
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