12 Surprisingly Awesome Straight-To-Video Movies

5. Get The Gringo (2012)

Universal Soldier Day Of Reckoning Jean Claude Van Damme Dolph Lundgren
20th Century Fox

Why It Should've Sucked: When an actor of Mel Gibson's caliber can't even get his movie in cinemas (albeit largely due to his personal struggles more than anything else), it must really stink, especially with a first-time director at the helm.

Why It's Awesome: Gibson is about 95% of the reason this movie works, acting as co-writer and producer in addition to star. He proves here that he's not missed a step despite his extra-curricular woes, and can still play the wise-talking bada** to delicious effect.

The plot is fairly throwaway, but the unique Mexican prison setting combined with an agreeably old-school tone and Gibson's gonzo performance makes it an outrageously enjoyable venture and a sure credit to the STV label.

Contributor
Contributor

Stay at home dad who spends as much time teaching his kids the merits of Martin Scorsese as possible (against the missus' wishes). General video game, TV and film nut. Occasional sports fan. Full time loon.