Skiptrace (2016)

Skiptrace (2016): An Entertaining Action-Comedy Adventure Starring Jackie Chan and Johnny Knoxville

Overview

Skiptrace is a 2016 action-comedy film that brilliantly combines thrilling sequences with light-hearted humor, crafted to entertain fans of the genre worldwide. Directed by Renny Harlin, a filmmaker well-known for his action-packed blockbusters such as Die Hard 2 and Cliffhanger, this movie delivers an exotic and fun-filled adventure across several international locales.

Plot Summary

The story revolves around Bennie Chan (played by Jackie Chan), a seasoned Hong Kong detective who has been chasing a notorious criminal mastermind named Victor Wong for years. The chase takes an unexpected turn when Bennie teams up with an unlikely partner: Connor Watts (Johnny Knoxville), a brash American gambler and con artist with a knack for getting into trouble.

When Bennie’s partner is kidnapped by Victor's henchmen in Mongolia, Bennie is forced to leave his comfort zone and form an uneasy alliance with Connor. Their quest to save Bennie's kidnapped partner sends them hurtling through the bustling streets of Hong Kong, the steppes of Mongolia, and the lively backdrops of Macau, encountering various colorful characters and dangerous situations along the way.

The plot skillfully balances fast-paced action sequences—explosions, fights, and thrilling chases—with moments of humor arising from the cultural clash and quirky dynamics between the disciplined Bennie and the reckless Connor. Both characters' chemistry is palpable and forms the heart of the film, driving forward the narrative.

Main Cast

• Jackie Chan as Bennie Chan – The film’s protagonist, a tough and resourceful Hong Kong detective known for his martial arts prowess and unyielding determination.
• Johnny Knoxville as Connor Watts – An American gambler and con artist who brings comic relief and unpredictability to the duo’s partnership.
• Fan Bingbing as Samantha Bai – A mysterious woman connected to Bennie’s case, adding depth and intrigue to the story.
• Ethan Li as Benny’s Partner – Whose kidnapping propels the core narrative.

Director and Writer

Skiptrace was directed by Renny Harlin, whose expertise in crafting engaging, visually dynamic action films is clearly evident. The screenplay was written by Eddie Berganza, who developed the story to incorporate a mix of thrilling action and comedic moments, successfully playing on the strengths of his lead actors.

Production and Cinematic Style

The film was an international co-production, melding Hollywood-style action with the vibrant energy of Asian cinema. This cross-cultural blend highlights the exotic settings and diverse cast, immersing audiences in a globe-trotting adventure. The choreography of the fight scenes showcases Jackie Chan’s trademark style—combining martial arts with clever use of the environment—while the stunt work adds impressive spectacle.

Critical Reception and Audience Appeal

While Skiptrace received mixed reviews from critics who pointed out its predictable storyline, the film was praised for its entertainment value, particularly the chemistry between Jackie Chan and Johnny Knoxville. Fans loved the fun banter, humorous situations, and well-executed action scenes. It's a film designed as a light-hearted escape, ideal for viewers looking for amusement coupling international flair with solid action.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Skiptrace (2016) is an enjoyable action-comedy that brings together the charm of Jackie Chan's martial arts and Johnny Knoxville’s comedic timing. Directed by Renny Harlin and penned by Eddie Berganza, this movie offers a fun, globe-hopping adventure enriched by vibrant settings and dynamic characters. Whether you are a fan of action movies or light-hearted comedies, Skiptrace provides an entertaining cinematic experience that is both thrilling and amusing.

Subscribe to our mailing list to receive updates for latest hindi movies. Stay Connected!