51st State

"51st State" is a British action-comedy film directed by Ronny Yu and released in 2001. The film stars Samuel L. Jackson, Robert Carlyle, and Emily Mortimer in the lead roles. It is set in Liverpool and follows the story of Elmo McElroy, a master chemist who arrives in town with a new drug formula and plans to sell it to a ruthless drug lord known as "The Lizard."

The story begins with Elmo McElroy, a chemist who has spent his career working for the American pharmaceutical industry. After being fired from his job, he decides to create a new drug formula that will revolutionize the industry. McElroy believes that his new drug, which he calls "The Formula," is worth a fortune and decides to sell it to the highest bidder. He heads to England to sell his formula to a drug lord known as "The Lizard," who operates from his estate in Liverpool.

Once in Liverpool, McElroy is picked up by a local drug dealer named Felix DeSouza (played by Robert Carlyle). DeSouza agrees to help McElroy sell the formula to "The Lizard," in exchange for a share of the profits. However, things don't exactly go as planned, especially when McElroy meets a DEA agent named Dakota Parker (played by Emily Mortimer), who is hot on his trail. As it turns out, Dakota has been tracking McElroy for years, and now she's determined to catch him and put him behind bars.

The film is a wild, over-the-top comedy with plenty of action and some unexpected twists and turns. The chemistry between the three leads is incredible, and they all deliver standout performances. Samuel L. Jackson is especially great as McElroy, infusing the character with equal parts charm, humor, and intelligence. Robert Carlyle, as always, is a scene-stealer, playing the part of Felix DeSouza with an infectious energy that will leave you grinning from ear to ear. And Emily Mortimer is no slouch either, infusing Dakota Parker with a tough, no-nonsense attitude that makes her one of the most memorable female characters in recent action movies.

What makes "51st State" so much fun is its willingness to embrace its own absurdity. The plot is outlandish, the characters are larger-than-life, and the action sequences are over-the-top and outrageous. Yet somehow, it all works. The film has a genuine sense of humor that makes it impossible not to enjoy, and the energy of the cast and crew is contagious. There are some moments of violence, but it never feels gratuitous or unnecessary, and the film never takes itself too seriously.

In terms of technical aspects, the film is well-made, with crisp cinematography and solid editing. The soundtrack is also great, featuring a mix of classic rock and hip-hop that feels both fresh and familiar. The action sequences are intense and energetic, with some impressive stunt work and practical effects that add to the film's overall charm.

In conclusion, "51st State" is a fun, fast-paced action-comedy with a great cast, an absurd plot, and plenty of laughs. It's not a film for everyone, but it's a great choice for those looking for some mindless entertainment that's guaranteed to put a smile on their face.