One of Jason Statham’s first film roles was in a remake of a beloved British classic from the 1960s. More than two decades later, the action film is preparing to make its way to a new streaming destination, with a Paramount+ debut just around the corner.
2003’s The Italian Job, featuring Statham alongside an ensemble of well-known stars, will be available on Paramount+ starting November 1. The film can currently be watched on Starz with a subscription, but it is among the titles scheduled to join Paramount+ in November.
The Italian Job Combines Heist Action With High-Speed Racing
The story behind The Italian Job dates back to 1969, when the original British comedy caper introduced a group of criminals plotting to steal a shipment of gold bullion being transported through Italy. The film became particularly memorable for its action scenes and its notorious ending, which leaves the characters in a literal and figurative cliffhanger. The crew find themselves trapped inside a bus precariously balanced on the edge of a cliff, with the gold still within reach but no clear way to retrieve it.
Although the 2003 version revisits the same basic premise, it takes several liberties with the original. Rather than maintaining the earlier film’s lighthearted comedy style, the remake leans more heavily into contemporary action. It also changes the circumstances behind the crew’s pursuit of the gold. Director F. Gary Gray therefore often described the project as an homage to the 1969 film rather than a straightforward remake.
The newer story once again brings together a team of thieves determined to get their hands on a fortune in gold. Their target, however, is a former member of their own crew who betrayed them. Each member brings a particular skill to the operation, from computer expertise to exceptional driving abilities. Statham plays driver “Handsome Rob”, joining a cast that also includes Mark Wahlberg, Charlize Theron, Edward Norton, Seth Green, Mos Def, Franky G and Donald Sutherland.
The Italian Job also found favour with critics and audiences, earning a 72% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Reviewers and viewers particularly responded to its ensemble cast and energetic action sequences. The film also helped fuel renewed interest in the BMW Mini Cooper, which features prominently throughout and serves as the vehicle of choice for many of its car-focused set pieces.
Will There Ever Be a Sequel to The Italian Job?
Despite The Italian Job performing well, plans for a follow-up never came to fruition, even though several attempts were made to get one underway. A sequel titled The Brazilian Job entered development discussions in 2004, but the project was ultimately scrapped. Over the years, other possibilities for continuing the story have also been raised.
Producer Donald De Line offered an update in 2009, revealing that The Brazilian Job had progressed to the scriptwriting stage, with a budget already prepared. However, the project failed to move forward. By 2010, the sequel was widely being treated as a film that would never happen, although Mark Wahlberg continued to insist that it was still in development.
After more than a decade without significant updates, talk of another instalment resurfaced this year. In September, reports emerged that director Paul Feig was in discussions with Paramount about taking on a sequel. Whether the project will finally make it into production remains uncertain.
The Italian Job arrives on Paramount+ on November 1.
Source: Various
