Redemption (2013)

About Redemption

Redemption is a 2013 British action film directed by Steven Knight and released in the United States as 'Hummingbird'. The plot follows the life of Joseph Smith, a veteran suffering from PTSD who assumes another man's identity to seek retribution.

Jenny, a nun who volunteers at a soup kitchen, fosters an unlikely friendship with Joseph. As Joseph quests for redemption, he tries to turn away from his violent past. Scenes of intense action and dramatic revelations characterize the narrative arc of 'Redemption'.

Making / Production

Steven Knight directed the movie as his debut in the field, with Paul Webster and Guy Heeley producing it. The film was revealed on 7 April 2013 and made in the span of a few months during the same year. Shot primarily in London, the movie gives a gritty, realistic portrayal of the city's underworld.

Actors

• Jason Statham stars as Joseph Smith, delivering a balanced performance that combines brooding introspection with his trademark action skills.
• Agata Buzek as Sister Cristina, portrays a nun battling her own demons while trying to help Joseph find redemption.
• Victoria Bewick plays Isabel, adding depth and humaneness to the role of a young homeless woman.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The movie was initially released in the UK under the title 'Hummingbird'.
• This is the first movie directed by Steven Knight, who was previously known for his screenplay for the film 'Dirty Pretty Things'.
• Jason Statham’s character, Joseph Smith, is a former special forces soldier, which is a role often played by Statham in his action movies.

Awards

Redemption did not win any major awards, but it was well-received, with particular praise for Statham's performance and Knight's directing.

Quotes

• "You don’t throw people away. Not on the street, not in your heart." - Sister Cristina
• "I don’t care. All I want is my cut." - Joseph Smith

Music, Soundtrack

• The film's score composed by Dario Marianelli delivers a compelling mix of moody ambiance and gripping action beats.
• The ending song 'The Unknown' by the artist Sibyl Vane adds a haunting finale to the story.