Day Shift (2022, dir. JJ Perry)

A down-on-his-luck LA vampire hunter races against time to save his family. Splashy hybrid of horror-comedy and buddy thriller: From Dusk Till Dawn and John Wick are key influences: the plot is an excuse to hang a series of fun fight sequences on. Scott Adkins and Snoop Dogg (it’s that kinda film) pop up for good measure, and there’s even a Hellzapoppin gag.

Here’s the trailer.

Pain and Gain (2013, Dir. Michael Bay)

A gang of body builders in Florida attempt the kidnap and extortion of a businessman. Loosely based on the actual events and court case surrounding the ‘Sun Gym gang’, this outrageous film is entertaining but struggles between crime dramatisation and glorification. A good cast works well here though. Watch it and decide!

Pain and Gain (2013, Dir. Michael Bay)

Constantine (2005, dir. Francis Lawrence)

A damned occultist battles a demonic attempt to take over the Earth. Fun apocalyptic fantasy-horror-action hybrid, loosely based on the Hellblazer comic. Lots to enjoy, though over-reliance on CG softens the film’s impact.

How I Spent My Summer Vacation (AKA Get The Gringo) (2012, dir. Adrian Grunberg)

A nameless bankrobber has to work his way out of a Mexican prison while evading the mob. Splendidly stylised black comedy action thriller, making best use of its star’s talents, and exploiting every opportunity to indulge itself in grim jokey chuckles.