The Turkey has been carved, the presents unwrapped, the stockings emptied and post-Christmas blues are threatening. What better way to boost your spirits, than to make good use of your Xmas gift cards, feed your love of WWE and kick-start your new year with the latest offering from WWE Studios and Lionsgate Home Entertainment UK, 12 Rounds 3: Lockdown which will be available from all good stockists from 4 January 2016...... (Read to the end of this review and you might just find another way to lift those spirits!)
For those that don't know, WWE studios was formed over a decade ago as a part of WWE's continuing efforts to be a pioneering force in the entertainment industry. The Studio's films would provide a platform for WWE Superstars and Divas and another avenue of enjoyment for fans. The results of the company's labours have included 'See No Evil' and its sequel, a re-boot of the legendary Leprechaun film and the inaugural movie under the 'Studios' banner, 12 Rounds.
People across the world will know that sports entertainment has long been the breeding ground for acting talent. Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson is Hollywood's go-to guy for box office success. Dave 'The Animal' Bautista has hit the big time with Marvel, Bond and much more besides whilst WWE Superstar John Cena is making his mark including with recent appearances in Trainwreck, Sisters and Daddy's Home. Dean Ambrose seeks to step into Cena's shoes and join that family of acting talent, in this latest movie of the 12 Rounds series which Cena put on the map.
In writing, 'The rule of three' is a principle which submits that things appearing in triplet are better and inherently more satisfying. The odds were therefore favourable for 12 Rounds 3: Lockdown and happily the rule of three holds fast for fans fresh to the franchise who will not be disadvantaged if they missed the previous 12 Rounds offerings. This film, much like the sequel to the original, is a standalone movie with a changed concept. In the first film, John Cena faces 12 rounds of trials set by a fiendish adversary whilst in the sequel, Randy Orton's paramedic is forced to play a similar game. This third film essentially re-boots the franchise, simplifying the storyline and with enjoyable results.
Like a good Sports Entertainment story, the powers of good (Ambrose as police officer Shaw) are pitted against evil (the outstanding John Cross of '24' fame, as bad cop Burke).Having uncovered evidence linking his fellow officers to drug dealing and a murder, Shaw is framed and subsequently trapped inside his own precinct with only 12 rounds in his firearm and a thirst for justice. The action in 12 Rounds 3: Lockdown starts in the first scene and doesn't let up. With diminishing ammunition and a relentless enemy, Shaw has to use ingenuity to overcome in a game of cat and mouse. However, a simple shoot-em-out this is not. There is cross and double-cross in what is a fun and pacey movie which had our hearts pumping. In particular, watch out for a great elevator fight-scene and MacGyver like assaults from Shaw, including his innovative use of a fire extinguisher and electric cable to outwit his adversaries.
As for WWE Superstar Dean Ambrose himself, his cheeky on-screen debut works well, he looks the part and there is a smart symbiosis between his movie character and WWE "lunatic fringe" persona. Ambrose is believable as a mortal champion and fear not, fans of Ambrose' in-ring antics will find nods to his considerable abilities in some of the adrenaline-inducing action scenes. Starring alongside Ambrose are the aforementioned Roger Cross (Continuum) and Daniel Cudmore (X-Men: Days of Future Past) amongst others.
If you enjoyed our review, you'll be pleased to know that 12 Rounds 3: Lockdown is available on DVD and Blu-ray from January 4th. It is available on Digital Download now!
For those that paid close attention, Royal Ramblings are offering you a rare chance to win yourself a copy of 12 Rounds 3: Lockdown signed by none other than the star of the film, the "Lunatic Fringe" himself, Dean Ambrose! In order to enter, first "like" and "share" this review using Facebook or Twitter then email royalramblings@gmail.com or Tweet @royal_ramblings with your name and the answer to the following question by 8 January:
Which WWE Superstar played the lead role in 12 Rounds 2: Reloaded?
The winner will be picked at random. Good Luck and Happy New Year!
