08-08-14 Wanted (2008)

Seen: August 12th, 2008
Format: Theater
Rating: 7

There are two sorts of people in the world: those who want to see this film and those who don't. Of those who do, there is a further bifurcation; those who will admit it and those who won't.

I wanted to see this film.

The appeal is simply visceral.

Angelina Jolie: I just like looking at her. The fact she can act is a bonus. Mo like James McAvoy, so there seems to be something here if your tastes run thataway as well.

Action: lots of it. Most of it thoroughly over the top and so far removed from believability that I just don't care. There's some fantastic gags here and unlike some of the latest Bruckheimer dreck, they're actually fun. They make you shake your head, say "no way" all with a big fat grin on your face.

Yes, there's plot too. Also ridiculous and far removed from reality, but again: fun. Suspend your disbelief for a few hours, take what the expose to you as gospel and watch the sparks fly. Its not Shakespeare, or at least Richard III Shakespeare, but I'd bet he'd have had a good time as well.

You're not going to remember this film. It may take a month, it may take a few years, but eventually it'll fade from your memory. That just fine, this isn't cinema, this is a flick. Its for letting you escape for a few hours. Its for having fun and reliving with your friends. Its just a good bit of escapist fantasy.

And there's nothing wrong with that.

The Good: A no holds barred joy ride
The Bad: Morgan Freeman. Love him in this step out.
The Ugly: What goes around, come around