Ultimate Action Double Bill on Film4
Action film enthusiasts are in for a treat this Wednesday evening as Film4 broadcasts a thrilling double bill from the popular xXx franchise. The channel is set to screen the original 2002 film starring Vin Diesel, followed by the 2005 sequel xXx: State of the Union featuring Ice Cube.
What to Expect from the xXx Films
In the first film, Vin Diesel portrays Xander Cage, an extreme sports fanatic turned unlikely spy for the National Security Agency. The plot follows Cage on a perilous mission to Central Europe, where he must infiltrate a suspected Russian terrorist group. He is joined by a stellar supporting cast including Samuel L. Jackson, Asia Argento, and Marton Csokas.
The sequel, which airs later, introduces a new lead operative after Vin Diesel declined to return. American rapper and actor Ice Cube steps into the role as the fresh Triple X agent, shaking up the dynamics of the series considerably.
Audience and Critical Reception
The xXx series has garnered a dedicated fanbase over the years. On review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes, one admirer praised the original, stating, "This is hands down one of the coolest movies I've ever seen. The stunts are crazy... Non-stop adrenaline heart-stomping action and thrilling from start to finish."
Another fan highlighted its appeal for Vin Diesel enthusiasts, calling it "one of Vin Diesel's better roles" outside of his family-friendly film, The Pacifier.
However, the films were not without their critics. One review of the second instalment noted it featured "cheesier dialogue and more over-the-top action sequences than the original." Despite this, many viewers have hailed the sequel as "the best of the trilogy," showcasing the divided opinions the franchise inspires.
How to Watch the xXx Marathon
For those planning a late-night movie session, the schedule is as follows:
- The original xXx film airs at 10:45pm on Film4.
- The sequel, xXx: State of the Union (The Next Level), follows at 1:15am on the same channel.
This back-to-back screening offers the perfect opportunity for fans to revisit the high-octane world of Triple X operatives and for new viewers to experience the action-packed series.
