The Transporter (TV Series) 2B or Not 2B (2014) User Reviews

A solid start for season two

[Tweekums · 8/10 · 9 January 2016]

This episode, the first of the second season, opens with Frank rescuing Caterina "Cat" Boldieu from her North African captors; it later emerges that not only is her father a senior French politician but she was a decorated member of the French security service. Two years on and Cat has replaced Carla as his 'booking agent'. The main story begins when a twelve year old boy witnesses his father, an Italian Judge, being killed in what is assumed to me a Mafia hit. The killer is arrested and Frank takes to job of delivering the boy from his home in Germany to the court in Rome. Unfortunately the killer's brother is just as dangerous and is determined that the boy won't live to testify. He makes numerous attempts on the boy's life from the moment they leave his uncles house… clearly somebody is feeding them information.

This episode gets off to an exciting start with the rescue of new character Cat; Violante Placido does a solid job in the role, demonstrating that she can handle action scenes. The mission is what one would expect of the series; a succession of car stunts and fights that lead up to an explosive conclusion… predictable but fun. What wasn't predictable was the death of Frank's mechanic, Dieter Hausmann; this was a real shock and could weaken what is left of the series as he was likable and provided most of the series' laughs… hopefully this won't be the case. At least he got a proper send off and we weren't just told he'd gone like Carla Overall a decent start to the season; I look forward to seeing how various cast changes effect the remaining episodes.

Well, Hold On A Moment...

[precode · 30 November 2014]

While I agree that the killing of a beloved supporting character was a mistake, Mr. ger-daddazio seems confused about production. "Transporter" is a European series; TNT has merely acquired the North American rights. The U.S. is merely gravy for this show (if they really cared, they'd cast guest stars familiar to American viewers), and its continuing success or failure does not depend on its ratings here in the States.

Additionally, we do not know why the character was killed off. Perhaps the actor wished to move on. They've already replaced Frank's female contact with another, so it's entirely possible that a new sidekick will be introduced as well. In any event, to downgrade the entire episode because you didn't like one particular moment seems unfair.

The Deficiencies of the Season 2 Opener

[ger-daddazio · 1/10 · 30 November 2014]

The succession of Carla Valeri (Andrea Osvart) by the comparably beautiful Caterina Boldieu (Violante Placido), as assistant to Frank Martin (Chris Vance), was a satisfactory conduit for a smooth transition from Season 1 to Season 2. By stark contrast, the heartbreaking and ugly demise of the lovable Dieter Hausmann (Charly Hubner) was entirely gratuitous and over-the- top! It effectively tore out the heart of the show, robbing it of its distinctive character and flavor, and reducing it to the typical, bland, one-dimensional crime drama (as in boring). With Dieter's automotive expertise, dedication to his calling, and big heart, the script-possibilities were virtually limitless. I mean, where can you find so sweet a character, whose relationship with his automotive charges was tantamount to a love affair? Just like his relationship with his human charge. Well, now the possibilities are severely constrained. You just might have misjudged the intellect and sensitivity of TNT viewers. The prediction of this viewer: If TNT does not cancel the Series prior to the completion of Season 2, then, most certainly, the show will never see a Season 3! Now we can just sit back and see what actually happens.

Response to "Well, Hold On A Moment..."

[ger-daz · 30 November 2014]

Thank you, precode, for setting me straight on the production aspects of "Transporter". Now, although the failure or success of the series may not depend solely on the reaction of TNT viewers, the reaction or lack thereof may very well be a determining factor in the renewal or cancellation of the show in North America.

Also, your remark regarding the possibility of Hubner's decision to move on as an actor is plausible and well taken. As a (former) fan of the series, I may indeed have overreacted.

Footnote: Frankly, a major portion of my enjoyment of the show is watching the gear-shifting and foot-action on the pedals of the manual transmission Audi that Frank so expertly maneuvers!