Looking for Col Tom Parker

Rating: 6/10 (12 December 2004)

Greetings again from the darkness. Best to walk into the theatre knowing that this is Hollywood fluff and meant to be nothing but a light movie watching experience. Think Elvis movies from the 60's with hot shot director Soderberg behind the camera. Preening and posing are the norm and style over substance is required for camera time (count how many times Brad Pitt smirks). Wonderkind Soderberg uses a bit more of his "Traffic" style this time around with our desperate band of thieves. The hand held shots and strange angles are an attempt to provide interest to an otherwise boring project. I firmly believe Soderberg makes these movies to keep his friendships and power so that he can make the films he really wants to make. At least I hope that is why. Twelve tosses in a few more cute cameos than Eleven with Topher Grace, Albert Finney, Bruce Willis and even Jerry Weintraub making appearances. However, watching Julia Roberts play Julia Roberts is more painful than silly. The only interesting character is Vincent Cassel as Toulour, who wants to be known as the best thief. The scene in the museum is a Hip-Hop version of Catherine Zeta-Jones from "Entrapment". This is our second story line behind Andy Garcia seeking payback and revenge for the gang's successful hit on his casino in Eleven. Catherine Zeta-Jones is the new addition, but provides little more than another perfect face and wardrobe. Otherwise same old, same old and if you enjoyed the first, you will enjoy this one. Just remember, Elvis would have fit right in.