Jason Statham and Mark Wahlberg’s Action Classic Remake Is Officially Streaming Free Ahead of Sequel Talk
A remake with a lasting legacy
The Italian Job brought Wahlberg and Statham together as co-stars, a rare pairing in their careers. Wahlberg plays the leader of a team seeking revenge after a betrayal in Venice, Italy.
The film reworked the story, setting and tone of the 1969 movie starring Michael Caine. Though the original struggled at the US box office, it later built a devoted following and became known as a notable heist film of the 1960s.
The 2003 version earned commercial and critical success and was once set for a sequel. Internal changes, politics and uncertainty around the script prevented the follow-up from happening in the 2000s.
Free streaming brings it back
The Italian Job has joined Pluto TV’s November lineup, making it available to stream online for free. The move follows the film’s time at the top of Netflix’s charts.
The cast includes Wahlberg, Charlize Theron, Donald Sutherland, Edward Norton and Yasiin Bey, formerly known as Mos Def. Sutherland plays safecracker John Bridger, Theron is his daughter Stella, and Norton portrays the betrayer Steve Frezelli.
Statham takes a different role
Statham plays Handsome Rob, the team’s main driver and a smooth-talking car enthusiast. The role gives him a more playful, relaxed character than the gritty action heroes he is often known for. The ensemble’s chemistry helps shape the film’s appeal, as a group of anti-heroes comes together through grief and a shared desire for vengeance.
Mini Coopers take the spotlight
The remake used 32 Mini Coopers, including red, blue and white cars that became a defining part of its look. The vehicles carry out demanding chase sequences while transporting 900 pounds of gold.
Director F. Gary Gray said in an interview that the stunts were performed live rather than created with special effects. For a subway scene, the production built an electric Mini because combustion-engine cars were not allowed in the underground tunnels.
Key points
- The Italian Job stars Jason Statham and Mark Wahlberg together in a rare on-screen pairing.
- The 2003 remake is now streaming for free on Pluto TV’s November lineup.
- A planned sequel did not proceed after internal changes and script uncertainty.
- The production used 32 Mini Coopers and performed its stunts live.