A Soderbergh Sundae, with the cherry...

Rating: 8/10 (14 May 2002)

***Possible Spoilers (though very slight)***
This is a fun, "bubble-gum for the brain" type movie. It is a little suspenseful, but for the most part, easy to follow. I've not seen the 1960's version of this movie, so I base my opinions on the 2001 version alone.
I thought the casting was great. And I liked seeing Brad Pitt and Matt Damon in a working relationship. They have complimentary acting skills. Of all the (modern) actors out there, I think that Brad Pitt has the widest array of characters, with Matt Damon easily in the top five. Even though they both play their most tried and true personalities in this movie, I was glad to see them together. I don't easily buy into the craze, and for a while, I didn't like Brad Pitt or his movies, but after seeing his diversity, he is impossible to ignore! I am finding the same pattern in Matt Damon.
George Clooney is yet another actor who I thought was riding on his looks, but as it turns out, he is a consistent actor. I've not seen him in many varying roles, but he does play this character well.
As always, Julia Roberts is cast as the leading lady, struggling with her plight for control over her destiny, or rather, her autonomy. Granted, she is the highest paid actress, and one of the three highest paid actors OR actresses in Hollywood, she does her character well. (Which is probably why she is so high paid). In Ocean's Eleven, she once again plays her character to a tee. I felt that the Chemistry between she had Clooney was admirable, though perhaps a little practiced.
And then we have Andy Garcia...a flawless performance, once again. He consistently plays a wonderful villain-type character, and Terry Benedict is no exception. I did feel that this film perhaps insulted his intelligence, it was necessary for the progression of the plot.
Overall, I found the movie enjoyable and I would rent it again - if I don't buy it first.