On January 21, 2026, Jason Statham revealed that Guy Ritchie’s upcoming film, Viva La Madness, will have a style very reminiscent of their earlier hit, Snatch. The veteran actor and director are teaming up once again for this British gangster movie, which is adapted from J. J. Connolly’s novel of the same name, marking their sixth collaboration.
Statham expressed enthusiasm for returning to a genre that echoes his early career work. He hinted that Viva La Madness will bring back elements like colorful characters, criminal underworlds, and gritty storytelling similar to Snatch, a 2000 box office success where he starred alongside Brad Pitt.
Returning to Roots with Familiar Faces
Jason Statham’s relationship with Guy Ritchie goes back to 1998, when Ritchie cast him in Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, launching Statham’s acting career. His real-life experience working market stalls in London inspired his role as Bacon, a sharp-witted wheeler-dealer.
The new film will reunite Statham with Ritchie as well as former footballer Vinnie Jones, who featured with them in both Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels and Snatch. Statham acknowledged the deep professional bond they share, reflecting on how Ritchie has been pivotal to his nearly three-decade career.
“When we get back together we have a great time doing these things. We like what we do.” – Jason Statham, actor
Statham recently worked again with Ritchie on the 2023 spy comedy Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre, making Viva La Madness their sixth project together.
Jason Statham Describes the Film’s Tone and Themes
At the UK premiere of his latest film Shelter, held in Leicester Square, London, Statham spoke about the distinctive style of Viva La Madness and how it aligns with his past work yet feels fresh. He noted the film’s lively mix of crime, drugs, and eccentric bad guys.
“Anyone who likes this type of film, it’s back to the days of Snatch. This is very Snatch-esque in terms of colourful characters, drugs, criminals, bad guys, that kind of stuff. It’s great.” – Jason Statham, actor
He emphasized that this project marks a return to a genre he hadn’t explored in some time, having been involved in mostly action-centric roles recently.
Jason Statham’s Latest Film Shelter Hits Cinemas Soon
Alongside news of Viva La Madness, Statham appeared at the Shelter premiere, accompanied by co-stars Bill Nighy and Bodhi Rae Breathnach, as well as director Ric Roman Waugh. Shelter tells the story of Mason, a former assassin living on a remote Scottish island, who rescues a teenage girl from the sea, setting off a chain of dangerous events that force him to confront his violent history.
Statham described Shelter as a unique project in his filmography, blending gritty action with emotional depth and a compelling narrative.
“I think you’ll have an emotional reaction to these two people that get brought together under strange circumstances and they find purpose in one another. It’s a very cool tale and we’ve got a lot of action to stack on top of it, which is the expectation when you come out and watch these things.” – Jason Statham, actor
The film is scheduled for release in cinemas on January 30, 2026.
Looking Forward: The Impact of Viva La Madness
With Viva La Madness, Jason Statham and Guy Ritchie aim to revisit the high-energy crime genre that propelled both into the spotlight. Statham’s return to this style, along with the reunion of familiar collaborators like Vinnie Jones, promises a blend of dynamic characters and thrilling storytelling. Fans of British gangster films can expect the movie to capture the vibrant, edgy atmosphere reminiscent of Snatch, adding a contemporary twist.
As Statham continues to diversify his roles with emotionally rich narratives like Shelter while preparing for Viva La Madness, his career demonstrates both growth and a nostalgic homage to his roots. The anticipation surrounding this project reflects the enduring appeal of his collaborations with Ritchie, as well as the ongoing popularity of British crime dramas.
