The 51st State Poster

The 51st State 2001

★ 6.1660 votes93 min📅 2001-12-07

"Nice wheels. Dirty deals. And one mean mother in a kilt."

Ronny Yu's *The 51st State (2001)* blends high-octane action, dark comedy, and crime drama into a wild ride set against the gritty underbelly of Liverpool. Samuel L.

Director: Ronny Yu

Cast

Samuel L. Jackson
Samuel L. Jackson
Elmo McElroy
Robert Carlyle
Robert Carlyle
Felix DeSouza
Emily Mortimer
Emily Mortimer
Dakota Parker
Meat Loaf
Meat Loaf
The Lizard
Rhys Ifans
Rhys Ifans
Iki
Sean Pertwee
Sean Pertwee
Detective Virgil Kane
Ricky Tomlinson
Ricky Tomlinson
Leopold Durant
Michael Starke
Michael Starke
Arthur
Anna Keaveney
Shirley DeSouza
Paul Barber
Paul Barber
Frederick

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The 51st State (2001) about?

The film follows Felix DeSouza, a master chemist who orchestrates a high-stakes drug deal that spirals out of control. Betrayal and violence ensue as he's forced into a deadly game of cat and mouse across Liverpool's underworld.

Who directed The 51st State?

Ronny Yu, known for his work on horror and action films like *Bride of Chucky* and *The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor*, helmed *The 51st State*.

Who stars in The 51st State?

The standout cast includes Samuel L. Jackson, Robert Carlyle, Rhys Ifans, Emily Mortimer, and Meat Loaf.

Is The 51st State (2001) worth watching?

If you enjoy crime thrillers with a sharp comedic edge and a charismatic lead, *The 51st State* is a hidden gem. Its mix of action, humor, and stylish direction makes it a worthwhile watch, though it flies under the radar compared to bigger blockbusters.

How long is The 51st State?

The runtime for *The 51st State* is 93 minutes.

🎥 Trailer

About The 51st State (2001) — A chemistry-fueled crime caper with Samuel L. Jackson

Ronny Yu's *The 51st State (2001)* blends high-octane action, dark comedy, and crime drama into a wild ride set against the gritty underbelly of Liverpool. Samuel L. Jackson stars as Felix DeSouza, a brilliant American chemist whose once-promising drug deal goes horribly wrong, pulling him into a chaotic spiral of betrayal and danger. With its sharp dialogue, explosive set pieces, and a dash of British eccentricity, the film balances tension and humor while exploring themes of greed, loyalty, and survival. The neon-lit streets and industrial backdrops add a cinematic edge, making it a cult favorite for fans of stylish, offbeat thrillers.

The ensemble cast, led by Jackson's charismatic intensity, delivers unforgettable performances alongside Robert Carlyle's cunning antagonist and Rhys Ifans' quirky comic relief. Whether you're drawn in by the promise of a thrilling crime caper or the chance to see Jackson in a role that's equal parts charming and ruthless, *The 51st State* delivers a satisfying mix of chaos and wit.