Sylvester Stallone and Jason Statham team up again in The Expendables 4 trailer. The movie will find Stallone's Barney Ross handing things off to Statham's Lee Christmas as part of Stallone's last appearance in The Expendables franchise. Dolph Lundgren, Randy Couture, and Megan Fox also star in the film.

Now, Expendables 4 release date on September 22.

The trailer begins with an intimate confrontation between Christmas and Megan Fox's new character, a fight scene that is rife with sexual tension. Thus introducing two of the main figures in this new storyline, the trailer then expands out to showcase the ensemble of action stars who have assembled for one more high-octane adventure. A new poster for the film was also unveiled, which can be seen below:

Expendables 4 poster

The Expendables 4 Feels Very Different from the Previous Films

Jason Statham and Megan Fox Facing Off in The Expendables 4

This brand-new trailer for The Expendables 4 shows that the franchise is narrowing its focus somewhat. In addition to its more character-driven opening scene, the overall mission is also simpler and more straightforward, involving a submarine full of nuclear missiles. And while the ensemble cast includes 50 Cent, Tony Jaa, Iko Uwais, Randy Couture, and Andy García, it's still considerably smaller than previous outings.

The previous Expendables films have been action epics on a huge scale. In addition to enormous action setpieces, the films have featured an increasing roster of huge stars. Over the years, the Expendables cast has included Antonio Banderas, Jet Li, Wesley Snipes, Terry Crews, Mel Gibson, Harrison Ford, and Arnold Schwarzenegger in addition to Stallone, Statham, Lundgren, and Couture.

Given the fact that it would be nearly impossible to keep growing, it makes sense for The Expendables 4 to grow slightly smaller. This will also make it easier for Stallone to the baton to Statham, should this film spawn another sequel. With more time to focus on the characters who will be moving forward with the franchise, the film will allow audiences to connect with them more and potentially be interested in following their further adventures.

Source: Lionsgate