To understand why this movie is to be savoured, you need to consider where it comes from. Action movies these days, a dime a dozen. Hollywood (eg JJ Abrams) bangs them out like donuts on a production line. Then you have the second tier stuff, guys like Van Damme and Seagal, both old enough to be each other's grandfather, cranking out films for approximately what a summer student would make pushing fries and Big Macs between classes -- and the films show it. In this category you also have the MMA stuff, all from directors so young they need permission to stay up late for the night scenes. And then you have the Indies, films that not only have no recognizable talent behind the camera, but unknowns in front also. Included in this class you have the Chinese and assorted Asian imports, with quality so uneven (assuming you don't mind the dubbing) you don't know whether to laugh or cry. Into his arena of pain -- mental pain -- comes Redemption, not only Statham's best acting in 100 years (who knew he even could act?) but also clearly the work of a director who understands that sometimes less is more. Most reviews of a Statham film will list the fight scenes and then tell you what is right or wrong about each. Not that kind of film. A real honest to God film-film that actually engages the viewer and moves along in a very satisfying way. Would that they were all like that.

Given Jason Statham's recent track record in film, you might be forgiven for thinking that HUMMINGBIRD is yet another action-packed beat-'em-up, but it turns out to be something quite the opposite. The unusual title is a bit of a give-away, but this turns out to be a moody tale of redemption on the gritty streets of London.

Somewhat surprisingly, Statham shines as the down-on-his-luck former soldier reduced to a life of homelessness on the streets. This is a guy who rarely gets the chance to properly act, but who can be decent when given the opportunity. It helps that his story arc is well-handled, displaying sensitivity where needed and exploring the thematic elements with maturity.

Of course, there are one or two fight scenes tossed into the mix for the fans, but for the most part this is a thoughtful mood piece that tells an interesting tale and does so well. Congratulations to all involved.

Jason Statham is super fighting AGAIN... and there's nothing wrong with that. This time he is a war veteran suffering PTSD. He is homeless in London and falls into being the muscle for the Chinese gang. Agata Buzek is a nun who work with the homeless. As he become more successful as a gangster, his friendship with her starts to turn to more. Is she being corrupted? Or can she still save him?

There is some good super fighting here. It's not the over the top ridiculousness but it's not a gritty realistic portrayal either. It occupies a space in-between and maybe that's the cause of most of its problems.