Sean Penn Makes Action Hero Debut At 54

Two-time Oscar winner Sean Penn has attended the world premiere of his first action film in London.

The US actor braved the rain with his partner, actress Charlize Theron, as they hit the red carpet for The Gunman.

Penn stars alongside British actors Ray Winstone and Idris Elba in his first leading role in an action film in his 30-year career.

His co-stars said despite it being a new genre of film for the 54-year-old actor he needed no help or advice.

"I think he's amazing, he brought a depth to the action genre with his character," said Elba. "He's Sean Penn, I don't have that many tips for him."

Director Pierre Morel, who took the helm on Liam Neeson action movie Taken, said Penn was totally comfortable with this new challenge.

"He knows everything, he's the best actor ever, so why would I have any tips?" said the film-maker.

"It was all about getting the performance he can get without me, I mean he doesn't need me, he's a genius."

The Gunman sees Penn take on the role of Jim Terrier, an ex-special forces soldier suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder who flees the Democratic Republic of Congo after carrying out an assassination, leaving his love behind.

His past comes back to haunt him when a former employer tries to have him killed and he must clear his name and stop the people who want him dead.

The film is packed with gunfights and explosions, but Ray Winstone, who plays a friend of Penn's character, insisted it was more than just an action movie.

"The story behind it, the political story within the movie - yes it's an action film but I think it has a statement in the film as well, which is quite interesting, makes you think a little bit."

The English actor also paid tribute to Penn's sprightly performance: "Maybe I didn't realise it that much when I was making it - you know you think 'Oh Sean, he's getting on a bit' - (but) he looks as fit as a butcher's dog."

The Gunman will be released in UK cinemas on March 20.