The Jason Statham Sci-Fi Action Gem That Packs A Punch

By Charlene Badasie | Published 19 seconds ago

Released in 2001, The One is a science fiction action film starring Jet Li and Jason Statham. Directed by James Wong from a script he co-wrote with Glen Morgan, the film explores a multiverse where alternate versions of the same person exist across countless parallel universes.

The story follows Gabriel Yulaw (Jet Li), a former police officer from an alternate universe who embarks on a mission to eliminate alternate versions of himself from various dimensions. Yulaw believes that by destroying his counterparts, he gains their strength and power, ultimately leading him to become The One. His pursuit of power sparks conflicts with law enforcement agencies across the multiverse.

Agent Harry Rodecker (Delroy Lindo) and his partner, Agent Evan Funsch (Jason Statham), are determined to stop Yulaw’s deadly spree, leading to a tense cat-and-mouse game spanning multiple universes. The One reaches its climax in a showdown between Yulaw and his final counterpart, Gabe Law, at the iconic Los Angeles Coliseum.

An Early Hidden Multiversal Gem

The One garnered mixed reviews from critics following its release. While Jet Li’s performance and the film’s adrenaline-pumping action sequences received praise, critics took issue with the plot’s lack of coherence and depth. However, the special effects were often highlighted as a strength, showcasing the filmmakers’ commitment to bringing the multiverse concept to life.

The One also achieved moderate financial success, grossing approximately $43 million in the United States and around $72 million worldwide. Despite its mixed critical reception, it remains an engaging sci-fi action film that showcases Jet Li’s talents while offering a unique take on parallel universes and the pursuit of ultimate power.

Jet Li and Jason Statham Reunite In The Expendables

Jet Li and Jason Statham would later collaborate again in the popular Expendables film series. This star-studded action franchise pays homage to classic 1980s and 1990s action movies by bringing together an ensemble cast of iconic action stars. Known for its over-the-top violence and witty one-liners, the series serves as both a tribute to the genre and a modern continuation of it.

Directed by Sylvester Stallone, The Expendables introduces viewers to a team of mercenaries led by Barney Ross (Stallone). The cast is a veritable who’s who of action stars, including Jason Statham, Jet Li, Dolph Lundgren, Mickey Rourke, Terry Crews, and more. Jet Li returned for The Expendables 2while Statham remained a franchise mainstay through all four films, including 2023’s Expend4bles.

Since The OneJason Statham has cemented himself as one of Hollywood’s most reliable action stars. His impressive catalog includes Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, Snatchthe Transporter franchise, Crank, The Italian Job, Death Race, Spyand the Fast & Furious film series. More recently, he has headlined films like The Beekeeper and A Working Mancontinuing a career built on hard-hitting action and tough-guy charisma.

As of this writing, The One can be rented or purchased on-demand through YouTube, Apple TV+, Amazon Prime Video, and Fandango at Home.