The Mechanic (2011)

Arthur Bishop is a 'mechanic' - an elite assassin with a strict code and unique talent for cleanly eliminating targets. It's a job that requires professional perfection and total detachment, and Bishop is the best in the business. But when he is ordered to take out his mentor and close friend Harry, Bishop is anything but detached. Driven by a mix of grief and guilt, he takes Harry's volatile son, Steve, under his wing, teaching him the deadly trade. However, Bishop soon discovers that Steve's thirst for revenge may make him more of a liability than an asset, leading to a complex and dangerous partnership where trust is a luxury they can't afford. "The Mechanic" earns its place on a list of Simon West's best films due to its slick, action-packed presentation and compelling character dynamic. West directs with his signature flair for explosive set pieces and gritty realism. The film showcases his ability to create a tense and engaging thriller, even within the familiar assassin genre. Furthermore, the film highlights West's talent in directing action films. The fast-paced fight choreography and explosive set pieces make it an undeniably entertaining action film, solidifying its status as one of West's stronger contributions to the genre.