Wasting no time in picking up where Transporter left off, Jason Statham wastes no time beginning this wildly over the top action flick. The first fight comes within minutes of the credits, and the rapid fire plot development is there to give something to the action (and nothing more). The action is more intense, and it makes this sequel a cut above the first.

For those who haven’t seen Transporter, you’ll be given the Cliff's Notes on Statham’s character, Frank Martin. Other characters aren’t even introduced, but tossed into the story simply to have something to connect the films. The loose connection means little time is spent reminiscing, and more time is spent blowing things up.

Sheer evil is brought out by Kate Nauta, a sexy assassin trying to kill Martin at every turn. Her evil stares, priceless one-liners, and lack of clothes give the film a priceless, cornball edge that makes it fun. Alessandro Gassmann can’t compete as her husband, who doesn’t come off on the same level of cold-heartedness.

The story of a basic kidnapping/ransom is one that’s been told thousands of times, yet it’s never been told in a movie containing a fight involving a fire hose. The stunt work here is insane, including a finale on a crashing jet liner that is as ridiculously over the top as it is brain dead enjoyment. Car chases are intense, a jet ski ride is unforgettable, and the doctor’s office rumble is simply priceless. Special effects are either intentionally terrible or it’s on purpose. Either way, it adds to the charm.

Nothing here is Oscar-worthy, and no one in their right mind will believe anything that happens here is actually plausible. To believe either of those things should be associated with Transporter 2 is missing the point. This is a near parody of the action genre, but maintains everything that is so absurdly enjoyable about it. The energy here eclipses the original, and makes it a better film as a whole.

Transporting (heh) to Blu-ray with a MPEG-2 transfer, this is a high end disc. Color filters used on the film give the movie a blistering tone that in close-ups provides an array of depth and contrast. Detail is simply outstanding, and the deep, rich black levels are awe-inspiring. Those oh so wonderful colors do cause problems during some long shots however, with shimmering and bleeding evident. These moments are rare, yet noticeable.


DTS HD leads a powerful, immersive audio charge. Bullets are tracked through the sound field, and the bass is powerful. Rear speaker usage is common, noticeable, and immersive. Explosions deliver a heavy punch. Ambient noise is minor during non-action scenes.

Like trailers? Fox hopes you do as those will be the only extras you’re given.

Transporter 3? Why not? The sequel hauled in more box office than the original, and both have found massive success on home video. As with the first, Transporter 2 leaves it wide open for quick plot set-up.