AceShowbiz - Blitz is a 2011 British crime thriller starring Jason Statham that has quietly become one of the most streamed films on the free U.S. platform Tubi. The film, directed by Elliott Lester and running 97 minutes, features Statham as a tough South East London detective tracking a serial killer targeting fellow police officers.

The screenplay, written by Nathan Parker, adapts the novel by Ken Bruen. Alongside Statham, the cast includes notable actors such as Paddy Considine, Aidan Gillen, Zawe Ashton, and Luke Evans. Produced by Lionsgate UK, the film was the company’s first British production and earned just over $15 million at the global box office.

Interest in Blitz has increased as fans await the sequel to the acclaimed British crime thriller Layer Cake. Rumors of the follow-up have circulated since 2013, after author J.J. Connolly released his sequel novel Viva La Madness. It was reported that Jason Statham acquired the rights to the sequel and would reunite with frequent collaborator Guy Ritchie to bring the story to the screen, though details have been scarce until recently.

Meanwhile, Blitz has found a new audience. At the time of writing, the film ranks among the top ten streamed movies on Tubi in the United States. This resurgence may be attributed to its straightforward, action-packed narrative and Statham’s signature tough-guy performance, which appeals to his fanbase looking for easy-to-watch crime thrillers.

Despite its current streaming popularity, Blitz received mixed reviews upon release. The film holds a 48% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting generally lukewarm critical reception. The consensus described it as "a middling crime thriller largely assembled from wearyingly familiar parts," with praise for Statham’s committed performance but criticism for its lack of originality.

Some critics found the movie visually slick yet lacking in conviction. One review noted that “It is an unedifying film, slickly directed and photographed, but lacking conviction and much inferior to the police procedurals you can see any night on television.” Audiences agreed with the critics, awarding an even lower score of 36% from over 5,000 ratings on the same platform.

Despite critical reservations, Blitz remains a notable entry in Jason Statham’s filmography for fans of gritty British crime dramas. The film showcases a blend of action and thriller elements, with Statham embodying a tough cop who relentlessly pursues justice in a dangerous urban environment.

As anticipation builds for the Layer Cake sequel, Blitz offers a reminder of Statham’s ability to headline compelling crime stories. Viewers can watch the film for free on Tubi, making it accessible to a wide audience eager to revisit or discover this lesser-known thriller.

Collider will continue to provide updates on streaming availability and new developments involving Jason Statham and upcoming projects, including the highly anticipated return to the Layer Cake universe.