For those seeking an action movie experience that embraces pure, unadulterated absurdity, the 2006 film Crank and its 2009 sequel, Crank: High Voltage, are now available to stream for free on Pluto TV. These films, celebrated for their gleefully violent and often surreal comedic elements, stand out as unique entries in the action genre.
The original Crank introduces Chev Chelios, a Los Angeles-based hitman who, after being injected with a slow-acting poison that inhibits adrenaline production, must maintain a constant state of high-octane activity to survive. His quest for revenge involves a frantic, city-wide rampage where he steals stimulants, provokes law enforcement, and drives with reckless abandon. Jason Statham, already establishing his action persona in the Transporter series, leans into the role, portraying Chelios as a relentless force fueled by a mix of adrenaline and dark humor.
Crank's visual style, helmed by directors Mark Neveldine and Brian Taylor who also served as camera operators, eschews typical shakycam for a more amateur skateboarding video aesthetic. This raw, energetic filming style contributes to the film's distinct personality.
Crank: High Voltage escalates the absurdity by employing consumer-grade camcorders for its entire runtime. In this sequel, Chelios wakes up on an organ harvester's table having had his heart replaced with an artificial one. This new heart requires regular electrical charges to function, forcing Chelios into even more extreme actions to keep it powered and retrieve his stolen heart from a Triad gang. The film abandons any pretense of realism, with Chelios exhibiting near-supernatural strength and electrical powers, drawing comparisons to video games like Grand Theft Auto and even first-person shooters.
High Voltage doubles down on the excessive gore, violence, and nudity seen in the first film, featuring numerous cameos from adult film actors. The sequel’s frenetic pacing and loose narrative have been described as resembling a Troma film with a substantial budget, designed for maximum, often incoherent, impact. The visual approach, including scene transitions mimicking those found in classic beat 'em up games, further enhances its unique, almost uncanny, presentation.
While the Crank films require viewers to suspend disbelief and turn off their minds, they offer a highly entertaining and ridiculously fun cinematic journey, particularly for fans of extreme action-comedy. Their availability on Pluto TV provides an accessible opportunity to experience these cult classics.