Shelter, the new action thriller starring Jason Statham and Bill Nighy, delivers exactly what fans of the genre hope for: relentless momentum, sharp choreography, and two veteran actors who know how to command the screen in completely different ways.
The film wastes no time dropping viewers into its high‑stakes world. Statham once again proves why he’s one of the most reliable action stars working today. His fight sequences are crisp, physical, and satisfyingly brutal without ever feeling repetitive. There’s a confidence to the way he moves through the film—every punch, kick, and improvised weapon feels like it belongs to a character who’s been surviving on instinct for years.
Bill Nighy, meanwhile, brings a cool, understated presence that balances Statham’s intensity. His dry wit and quiet menace give the story texture, and the contrast between the two actors becomes one of the film’s most enjoyable dynamics. Whenever they share the screen, the movie finds a rhythm that’s both tense and surprisingly fun.
The action is unquestionably the film’s strongest asset. Several set pieces stand out, especially a claustrophobic hallway brawl and a rooftop chase that feels ripped from the golden age of practical stunt work. The pacing rarely drags, and even when the plot leans into familiar territory, the execution keeps things engaging.
The film’s logline reads as follows: A recluse (Statham) on a remote Scottish island rescues a girl (Bodhi Rae Breathnach) from the sea, unleashing a perilous sequence of events that culminate in an attack on his home, compelling him to face his turbulent history.
If there’s a drawback, it’s that the story doesn’t always rise to the level of its performers. Some emotional beats feel rushed, and a few supporting characters fade into the background. But the film never pretends to be anything other than a tightly wound action ride—and on that front, it succeeds.
Overall, I give the film a B plus.
Shelter is now playing in theaters.
