Entertaining, fun, and I hope there is a sequel

Rating: 8/10 (29 December 2010)

Well, many gave this bad reviews because it was not "realistic." I think consumers of movies can no longer just watch a movie and be entertained. Everything has to be real to them in spite of the fact that everything that happens on the big screen is not real.
No, perhaps it wasn't a "realistic" representation of Russia. So what? Another reviewer criticized the Russian names they used for the characters that they were not authentic enough. So what? Sounded convincing enough for me.
I think Jolie pulled it off as a hard-edged spy. Her performance was actually quite good and I was surprised that a female lead could come off like she did in this type of role. Liev Schreiber also put on a very convincing performance as Ted Winter.
The plot kept you guessing until the end who was the bad guy and who was the good guy. Good twist to the plot.
Lots of action, there really was not a lull in moving the plot forward. It was entertaining to see how Salt kept getting out of her predicaments thinking on her feet and using creativity.
One reviewer criticized how "unrealistic" is was for her to be climbing around the outside on of a 20 story building along the window ledges. It was interesting to learn in the Special Features that she did most of the stunts and that she was actually walking the ledges in real life! (Yes, she was connected to a thin safety cable, but still...) No green screen, no CGI, she was doing if for real. So it was entertaining to read that review accusing it of being unrealistic and hokey. (Open mouth, insert foot.)
I was entertained and felt that I got my money's worth. I appreciated the fact that the Theatrical Cut kept more of the graphic violent scenes off-camera. If you want more blood and detailed gore, watch the Extended and/or Director's Cut.
I hope there is a sequel. An interesting premise has been setup for it. I recommend viewing this movie. Lots of fun.