The Expendables (B+)

This ensemble action event is short on the finer complexities of most films, but its distinct kinetic style and non-stop barrage of over-the-top action pieces makes this a fun time for those who like this sort of affair.
A trio of mercenaries named Barney, Lee, and Yin Yang(Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham, and Jet Li, respectability), still nursing the bruises from their impressive hostage rescue, set out on a mission for a mysterious figure (Bruce Willis) to assassinate the ruthless dictator of the fictional South American nation of Vilena (David Zayas). However they get more than they bargained for when their guide turns out to be the dictator's more noble daughter (Gisele Itie), a former teammate (Dolph Lundgren) turns against them, and they find the target not only has a knife-wielding body guard (Antonio Rodrigo Nogueria) but is sometime allies/ sometimes enemies with a powerful American (Eric Roberts) and his vicious henchman (Steve Austin and Gary Daniels). For help, the men turn to a retired friend named Tool (Mickey Rourke) and some more companions (Terry Crews and Randy Couture). As if this isn't enough, Arnold Schwarzenegger makes a cameo appearance.
The plot is a little short on themes, though there is some dramatic elements in the relationships between conflicted tough guy Barney and depressed artist Tool (this gives Rourke a chance to act up a storm). Other sub-plot lines feature Lee's romantic interest (Charisma Carpenter with a difficult role) and conflict among the villains (the latter plot line seems a little unnecessary, but it works). The biggest disappointment though is that Willis, Schwarzenegger, and Rourke don't fight once.
This doesn't mean the movie is a disappointment. The film features tons of absurd violence and action(pretty much the only reason it's rating is so harsh). Many viewers (aka females) will be upset or bored, but most viewers (aka males) will have a testosterone-loaded extravaganza.
What is more is how director/writer/producer/star Sylvester Stallone (who punched people as Rocky and killed them as Rambo) tries a unique style in an otherwise ordinary action tale. The dialogue's jokes are cringe-worthy (they're not just vulgar, they make no sense!), but the choice to have suspenseful music, loud sounds, dark settings, and fast moving yet focused camera movements gives the film a much more tense feel. Furthermore, the story avoids unrealistic romance, maintains believable characters in unbelievable fight scenes, and succeeds in showing a true companionship between the guys.
THE EXPENDABLES is a fun ride with explosions galore.