Jason Statham and Vinnie Jones film action scenes for Viva La Madness sequel in London

Jason Statham and Vinnie Jones, stars of the original Layer Cake, are back filming action scenes for the Viva La Madness sequel in London. This is their first movie together in years.
By Newsroom | Film, London |

VETERAN ACTORS STAGE ACTION SCENES FOR "VIVA LA MADNESS"

Jason Statham and Vinnie Jones, figures known for their roles in the gritty British crime genre, were recently observed engaged in strenuous action sequences for the forthcoming film "Viva La Madness." The production, a sequel to the 2004 London crime thriller Layer Cake, appears to be embracing its roots with intense on-set activity.

Reports indicate Jones, 61, was filmed collapsing after simulating being shot, while Statham, 58, was also seen amidst staged chaos, underscoring the film's commitment to visceral action.

Jason Statham and Vinnie Jones get stuck into filming tense actions scenes for new sequel to London crime thriller Layer Cake called Viva La Madness - 1

This cinematic undertaking marks a significant reunion, bringing together Statham and director Guy Ritchie after a considerable period. Ritchie, who helmed Statham's early breakout roles in Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels and Snatch, is directing and co-producing "Viva La Madness." Jones, a frequent collaborator with both Statham and Ritchie, also features prominently, adding to the established ensemble of talent. The film's development has been a lengthy process, with discussions and planning reportedly spanning over a decade.

Jason Statham and Vinnie Jones get stuck into filming tense actions scenes for new sequel to London crime thriller Layer Cake called Viva La Madness - 2

REUNION OF FAMILIAR FACES AMPLIFIES PRODUCTION BUZZ

The casting of Vinnie Jones into "Viva La Madness" signals a deliberate return to the collaborative dynamic that defined earlier successes. Jones's inclusion represents his fifth collaboration with Ritchie, a history that includes Snatch and the recently released Netflix series The Gentlemen. This recurring partnership, alongside Statham, taps into a perceived nostalgia for the stylish, often darkly comedic, British gangster films that gained traction at the turn of the century.

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Jason Statham and Vinnie Jones get stuck into filming tense actions scenes for new sequel to London crime thriller Layer Cake called Viva La Madness - 3

"To have Jason on board, as well as Vinnie, is going to make for cinematic gold," one sentiment conveyed about the project.

The film's plot details remain largely undisclosed, though sources suggest it will draw inspiration from J.J. Connolly's novel, with a narrative arc anticipated to explore themes of international crime, encompassing elements like trans-Atlantic drug deals and financial manipulation. The stated aim is to capture the "brilliance and the madness" of its predecessor.

Jason Statham and Vinnie Jones get stuck into filming tense actions scenes for new sequel to London crime thriller Layer Cake called Viva La Madness - 4

Additional Cast Members

Beyond the central trio, "Viva La Madness" boasts a diverse cast:

  • Jason Isaacs

  • Babs Olusanmokun

  • Camila Mendes

  • Ben Foster

  • Jonny Lee Miller

  • Raúl Alejandro (marking his feature film debut)

The production is spearheaded by Jason Statham and Thomas Benski, with filming commencing in London. The involvement of Statham and Ritchie is seen by some as a deliberate return to the stylistic territory of their earlier collaborative works.

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Historical Context: "Layer Cake" and its Legacy

The original Layer Cake, released in 2004, was a critical and commercial success that significantly boosted the careers of its director, Matthew Vaughn, and its lead actor, Daniel Craig, who went on to portray James Bond. The film revitalized the British crime film genre, blending stark realism with dark humor. "Viva La Madness" is positioned as a continuation of this legacy, exploring the London criminal underworld in subsequent years, albeit with reportedly heightened stakes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are Jason Statham and Vinnie Jones doing for the new film Viva La Madness?
Jason Statham and Vinnie Jones are filming action scenes for the new movie 'Viva La Madness' in London. Vinnie Jones was seen acting like he was shot, and Jason Statham was in staged chaos.
Q: Why is the filming of Viva La Madness important for fans?
This film is a sequel to 'Layer Cake' and brings back director Guy Ritchie, who worked with Jason Statham and Vinnie Jones before. Fans are excited to see them work together again after many years.
Q: What is Viva La Madness about?
The movie 'Viva La Madness' is about crime and is a sequel to the 2004 film 'Layer Cake'. It is expected to have themes of international crime, like drug deals and money problems.
Q: Who else is in the cast of Viva La Madness besides Statham and Jones?
Yes, other actors in 'Viva La Madness' include Jason Isaacs, Camila Mendes, Ben Foster, and Jonny Lee Miller. Raúl Alejandro is also in the film for his first movie.
Q: Where is Viva La Madness being filmed?
The filming for 'Viva La Madness' has begun in London. Jason Statham and Guy Ritchie are working together again in the city where they started their careers.