The screen explodes with gunfire, the roar of helicopters, and the unmistakable crack of knuckles meeting jaw. Old warriors never fade; they just reload. That hook quote perfectly encapsulates the explosive return of THE EXPENDABLES 5 (2023), a high-octane action-adventure-thriller that reunites the legendary mercenary team for what feels like their most personal, brutal, and adrenaline-pumping mission yet. Directed by Scott Waugh—master of kinetic set pieces from films like Need for Speed and Act of Valor—this installment doesn’t just deliver wall-to-wall chaos; it injects fresh blood, deeper stakes, and a heartfelt exploration of loyalty, redemption, and the unbreakable bonds forged in the fires of battle.
At its core, THE EXPENDABLES 5 picks up where the franchise left off, but with a twist that hits harder than any previous entry. Barney Ross (Sylvester Stallone), the grizzled leader who’s stared down death more times than most men have breakfasts, had finally hung up his weapons. Retirement suited him—quiet days, no more bullets whizzing past his ear, no more watching friends bleed out. But peace is a fragile illusion in the world of mercenaries. Enter Victor Drago (Jason Momoa), a towering former military genius turned ruthless warlord. Drago isn’t just another villain; he’s a force of calculated destruction, orchestrating global chaos with a private army, advanced weaponry, and a personal vendetta that strikes at the heart of the Expendables.
The call comes in the dead of night: Drago’s operations threaten not just world stability but the very people Barney and his team hold dear. Lee Christmas (Jason Statham), the knife-wielding Brit with a dry wit and unbreakable loyalty, faces the toughest dilemma of his life. Intelligence reveals Drago’s sinister plans target old comrades and even loved ones from their past missions. There’s no walking away this time. The team reassembles—some reluctantly, some eagerly—knowing this could be their last ride.
The cast is a dream lineup for any action fan. Sylvester Stallone returns as the stoic Barney Ross, his presence alone commanding respect. Jason Statham’s Lee Christmas is sharper than ever, blending lethal precision with heartfelt moments that ground the spectacle. Dolph Lundgren reprises Gunner Jensen, the volatile Swedish powerhouse whose redemption arc continues to evolve. Randy Couture as Toll Road brings brute strength and quiet wisdom, while Terry Crews’ Hale Caesar delivers comic relief and heavy firepower in equal measure.
Then come the fresh faces who inject new energy. Megan Fox joins as a fierce operative with her own agenda, her intensity matching the veterans blow for blow. Tony Jaa brings martial arts mastery in blistering fight scenes that pay homage to his Ong-Bak legacy. Jason Momoa, as the imposing antagonist Victor Drago, is a revelation—menacing, charismatic, and physically overwhelming. John Cena appears as Jack Davis, a cocky newcomer whose bravado hides deeper scars, while Gina Carano’s Maya “Mav” McKenzie rounds out the ensemble as a no-nonsense sniper with a personal stake in the fight.
The plot unfolds across a tapestry of gritty, diverse environments that keep the adrenaline pumping. From dense, humid jungles where visibility is low and ambushes lurk around every tree to sprawling urban war zones riddled with snipers and IEDs, the film never lets the pace slacken. Drago’s lair—a fortified compound blending high-tech security with ancient ruins—serves as the climactic battleground, where the team must infiltrate, sabotage, and ultimately confront the warlord in a showdown that tests every ounce of their skill and resolve.
What elevates THE EXPENDABLES 5 beyond mere explosions is its thematic depth. The film delves into the toll of a lifetime of violence. Barney grapples with mortality, questioning if he’s led his team to glory or just prolonged their suffering. Lee confronts vulnerabilities he’s long buried, especially when Drago’s threats turn personal. The newcomers—Jack and Mav—bring generational perspectives, forcing the old guard to confront change. Themes of loyalty shine brightest: these men (and women) aren’t just mercenaries; they’re family. Bonds formed in the heat of battle prove stronger than any contract.
Action sequences are pure spectacle. Waugh’s direction emphasizes practical effects—real stunts, tangible explosions, hand-to-hand combat that feels visceral. One standout set piece involves a high-speed boat chase through treacherous rapids, bullets ricocheting off metal as the team leaps between vessels. Another sees Tony Jaa and Jason Statham in a brutal knife fight amid crumbling ruins, blades flashing in slow-motion glory. Momoa’s Drago dominates screen presence, his massive frame turning every confrontation into a David-vs.-Goliath struggle—except here, David has an arsenal.
Humor balances the intensity. The banter is sharp and self-aware—Stallone’s deadpan one-liners, Crews’ booming laughs, Lundgren’s dry Swedish quips. A running gag about retirement plans interrupted by “one last job” elicits genuine chuckles amid the chaos.
Visually, the film pops. Cinematography captures the grit of real locations, with dynamic camera work that immerses viewers in the mayhem. The score blends orchestral swells with rock anthems, amplifying every punch and gunshot.
Rated 8.5/10, THE EXPENDABLES 5 earns its praise through execution. It’s not reinventing the wheel—it’s perfecting it. The ensemble chemistry crackles; Stallone and Statham’s partnership remains the franchise heartbeat. Newcomers integrate seamlessly, with Cena’s charisma and Carano’s toughness adding layers.
This isn’t just another sequel; it’s a testament to enduring spirit. In an era of CGI-heavy blockbusters, THE EXPENDABLES 5 celebrates practical action, veteran charisma, and the idea that true warriors never truly retire—they reload.
As the credits roll over a final, hard-won victory, one thing is clear: the Expendables aren’t done. Not yet. And thank goodness for that.
The ride is heart-pounding, hilarious, and heroic. Grab your popcorn, strap in, and prepare for the ultimate mercenary thrill. Because when the Expendables gear up, the world better watch out.
