"Safe" (2012) - an exciting mix of action and crime
At the heart of the cinematic landscape, “Safe” stands out as a captivating American crime thriller that has captivated audiences since its release in 2012. Starring the charismatic Jason Statham, the film unfolds in the role of Luke, a corrupt ex-cop on a mission. To protect a talented girl named Mai.
Amidst the bustling streets of New York, Mei finds herself entangled in the machinations of Chinese criminal gangs who seek to exploit her extraordinary talents for their illicit operations. Statham's character takes center stage as he becomes Mai's powerful guardian, protecting her from the relentless pursuit of Russian mobsters, Chinese gangs, and corrupt elements within the New York Police Department.
The plot thickens when May holds the key to a safe containing a staggering $30 million, a secret coveted by those with evil intentions. Statham's relentless quest to keep May safe reveals a thrilling story filled with intense action sequences and suspenseful twists.
Brilliantly directed, 'Safe' not only showcases Statham's prowess in the action genre but also delves into the complex web of crime and corruption that permeates the city. As the story unfolds, viewers are taken on a rollercoaster ride through New York's gritty underworld, where alliances shift and danger lurks around every corner.
“Safe” stands as a testament to the timeless appeal of action-packed thrillers, seamlessly blending adrenaline-pumping scenes with a compelling story. The film's success lies not only in its dynamic depiction of the battle between good and evil, but also in its exploration of the sacrifices humans are willing to make to ensure the safety of an innocent life.
the story of the movie
In the gritty world of "Safe," Jason Statham takes center stage as Luke Wright, a corrupt ex-cop turned cage fighter. Inadvertently winning a set match incites the wrath of Emil Ducheski (Sandor Teksi), the head of the Russian mafia. In brutal retaliation, Dučeski's son, Vasile (Joseph Sikora), and his men target Luke's pregnant wife, leaving her lifeless. As further punishment, Docheski vows to kill anyone Luke regularly interacts with.
Left with nothing, Luke gives up his life and becomes a homeless wanderer. Meanwhile, in China, brilliant young mathematician Mei (Catherine Chan) is kidnapped by henchmen working for crime lord Han Jiao (James Hong). Mei's unique abilities are being exploited by Chinese gangs operating in New York.
A year later
Han arrives in New York, seeking Mei's talents to unlock an important digital code. The Russian Mafia ambushes their car on their way to retrieve another code, but Mai is taken into Emil's custody. Resisting the code being revealed, Mei narrowly escapes during a chaotic standoff between the Russians and corrupt cops, led by Captain Wolf (Robert John Burke), who is collaborating with Han.
Luke meets May in a subway station during a Russian manhunt. Contemplating suicide, Luke witnesses May's plight and intervenes, eliminating the Russian threat. They hide together, and May eventually entrusts Luke with the code, revealing it as a safe collection.
They track Mei via her cell phone, and Han's henchmen pursue them. A fierce battle breaks out at the hotel between Luke Wolf and Kwon, one of Han's enforcers. Unbeknownst to Locke, Wolf warns Mayor Danny Tremello (Chris Sarandon) about his past and ongoing mission. Wolf warns Tremelo that Locke is not an ordinary cop but a government assassin working in black ops to take down criminal organizations in New York.
Using Chemyakin's phone, Luke captures Vasily and kidnaps him. Emil reluctantly agrees to a truce, with the aim of ensuring his son's safety. Emil reveals that Mei's code opens a safe in Chinatown containing $30 million. However, he is not aware of the contents of the second safe. Luke assembles a team, including Wolfe and his investigators, to gain access to the vault, and begins a thrilling confrontation with the ruthless Chinatown gangs.
The climax of events
As Locke was about to open the safe, Wolf attempted betrayal, but Locke eliminated the rest of the investigators and took Wolf hostage, using the money as leverage. Luke suggests Alex Rosen (Anson Mount), Tremello's former partner, to Emile, who works to rescue Mei. Alex uncovers Tremelo's second safe, which contains evidence of his corrupt dealings.
In a tense meeting, Luke refuses to give up the money and challenges Alex to take it the hard way. May intervened and shot and wounded Alex, killing Luke. In the aftermath, Luke handed over $50,000 to Wolf, ordering him to return safely to his father Vasiliy.
The remaining funds are sent to Han, to secure Mei's freedom. Luke warns Han of potential exposure in China if he tries to get Mei back. Disgusted, Han leaves New York, leaving Luke with multiple copies of the incriminating data scattered throughout the city.
As Luke and May leave town for Seattle, May wonders if they're finally safe. Luke's response echoes a sentiment of letting time heal all wounds.
work team
- Jason Statham as Luke Wright
- Katherine Chan as Mai
Chris Sarandon as Mayor Danny Tremello
- Robert John Burke as Captain Wolf