John Smilee: A Detailed Analysis of the Character from The Expendables 3

Introduction

John Smilee is a character in the 2014 action film The Expendables 3, portrayed by American actor Kellan Lutz. Created by the screenwriters of the film, Smilee is a younger member of the Expendables team, a group of elite mercenaries led by Barney Ross. This character adds a fresh dynamic to the franchise, which is known for its ensemble of veteran action heroes.

Smilee’s inclusion in the team reflects the theme of generational transition and the integration of new blood into the Expendables. His character is significant because he represents the future of the team and the challenges that come with blending old and new members. Unlike some of the other characters, Smilee does not have a detailed backstory in the film, but his interactions and actions provide insight into his personality and role within the team.

Role in the Story

In The Expendables 3, John Smilee is introduced as one of the new recruits to the Expendables team. The film opens with Barney Ross (Sylvester Stallone) and his team conducting a mission to rescue Doctor Death (Mel Gibson), a former Expendable who has turned against the team. However, this mission is a setup by the main antagonist, Conrad Stonebanks (Mel Gibson), a co-founder of the Expendables who has become a ruthless arms dealer.

Smilee, along with other new members like Thorn (Glen Powell) and Mars (Victor Ortiz), joins the team as part of Barney’s effort to create a younger, more agile unit. This decision is motivated by the increasing danger and physical toll of their missions on the older members. Throughout the film, Smilee participates in key battles and missions, showcasing his skills and bravery.

One of the pivotal moments involving Smilee is during the confrontation with Stonebanks. Smilee, along with Thorn, helps restrain Barney when he is about to kill Stonebanks, highlighting Smilee’s ability to think critically and avoid unnecessary violence ^[2][5].

Smilee’s relationships with other characters are also noteworthy. He forms a bond with the other new recruits and works well with the veteran members, despite some initial tension. His interactions with Barney and the rest of the team illustrate his willingness to learn and adapt, which is crucial for the team’s survival.

Character Analysis

John Smilee is portrayed as a skilled and agile fighter, reflecting the modern approach to combat that the new recruits bring to the team. His personality is that of a young, ambitious, and somewhat idealistic individual who is eager to prove himself. Smilee’s motivations are driven by a desire to be part of an elite team and to make a difference in the world.

One of Smilee’s strengths is his quick thinking and adaptability. In the heat of battle, he shows the ability to make sound decisions and support his teammates effectively. However, his inexperience sometimes puts him at odds with the older, more seasoned members of the team, leading to moments of tension and conflict.

Despite these flaws, Smilee’s character development throughout the film is positive. He learns from his experiences and grows as a member of the team, earning the respect of his peers. His character adds a fresh perspective to the franchise, highlighting the challenges and benefits of integrating new members into a veteran team.

Themes and Symbolism

John Smilee embodies several themes that are central to The Expendables 3. One of the primary themes is the generational transition and the passing of the torch from older to younger members. Smilee represents the future of the Expendables, symbolizing the need for renewal and adaptation in the face of changing circumstances.

Another theme is the importance of teamwork and unity. Smilee’s integration into the team and his contributions to their missions underscore the value of collaboration and trust among team members. His character also symbolizes the idea that experience and youth can complement each other, leading to a stronger and more effective team.

Cultural Impact

John Smilee, as a character, has had a moderate impact on the cultural landscape of action films. His portrayal by Kellan Lutz, known for his roles in The Twilight Saga and Immortals, brought a new audience to the franchise. The character’s inclusion in the film was seen as a way to revitalize the series and appeal to a younger demographic.

In terms of fan reception, Smilee has been generally well-received, particularly for his action sequences and his dynamic with the other characters. However, some fans have noted that his character, along with the other new recruits, feels somewhat underdeveloped compared to the veteran members of the team.

Critical Reception

Critically, The Expendables 3 received mixed reviews, with some critics praising the action sequences and the addition of new characters like Smilee, while others felt that the film lacked the depth and cohesion of its predecessors. Smilee’s character was seen as a positive addition by some, bringing a fresh energy to the film, but others felt that he and the other new recruits were not fully fleshed out.

Overall, the reception of John Smilee reflects the broader mixed response to the film. While he is not as iconic as some of the other characters in the franchise, he plays an important role in the narrative and contributes to the film’s themes of teamwork and generational transition.

Legacy

John Smilee’s legacy within the Expendables franchise is that of a transitional character who helped bridge the gap between the old and new generations of the team. His character represents the ongoing evolution of the franchise, which has always been about adapting to new challenges and incorporating fresh talent.

In contemporary discussions, Smilee’s character can be seen as part of a larger trend in action films to balance veteran stars with newer talent. This approach has been adopted in various other franchises, highlighting the importance of generational transition and the blending of old and new elements.