BY: THOMAS JOSEPH 9.29.23

When it comes to action-packed ensemble casts, "The Expendables" franchise has been a shining star for years. However, the recent release of "Expendables 4" left many fans with mixed feelings. While it certainly delivered on the action front, it seemed to veer away from the franchise's core identity, feeling more like a "Fast and Furious" chapter than an Expendables film.

 

A Shift in Tone

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From the very beginning, "The Expendables" franchise was known for its gritty, old-school action vibes. It was a tribute to the golden era of action cinema, featuring iconic stars like Sylvester Stallone, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Jason Statham. Unfortunately, "Expendables 4" seemed to deviate from this tried-and-true formula.

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Communication Breakdown

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One of the standout issues was the lackluster communication between the teams within the film. The witty banter and camaraderie that fans had come to love seemed forced and uninspired. The dialogues felt more like placeholders than the sharp one-liners and exchanges that characterized the earlier movies.

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A Shallow Storyline

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In contrast to the depth of previous Expendables plots, "Expendables 4" felt like it barely scratched the surface. The intricate narratives and character development that fans had grown accustomed to were noticeably absent. Instead, the film seemed to rely heavily on its star-studded cast.

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Familiar Faces and Forgotten Backstories

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While it was a delight to see familiar faces from the earlier films, the new additions to the cast were somewhat neglected. Megan Fox, for instance, had minimal backstory or character development, leaving audiences yearning for more context and connection to these newcomers.

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The Director's Influence

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Upon researching the film's director, Scott Waugh, some of these issues began to make sense. Waugh, known for his work in action films, brought his own style to "Expendables 4." While his approach may have resonated with some viewers, it appeared to clash with the franchise's established identity.

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A Bittersweet Verdict

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It's hard to label "Expendables 4" as a complete bust, especially given the fondness fans have for the franchise's previous accomplishments. The action sequences were undeniably thrilling, and the return of beloved characters provided moments of nostalgia. However, the departure from the franchise's roots, lack of character depth, and uninspired dialogues left some enthusiasts wanting more.

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In the end, "Expendables 4" may not have lived up to the expectations set by its predecessors. Nevertheless, true fans will likely continue to support the franchise, hoping for a return to the gritty, character-driven narratives that made "The Expendables" a beloved series in the first place. Sometimes, even a stumble can't diminish the legacy of a legendary team of action heroes.