Now don't you feel "Salt"-y?

Rating: 6/10 (3 August 2010)

**1/2 out of (****)
After the trailer debut of "Salt" worldwide audiences started to groan because they thought, "That's just another Angelina Jolie movie where she kicks butt and takes names, *sighs*. Despite some mixed reception from global audiences, "Salt", surprisingly gained positive feedback from the critics. While the reviews weren't as mind-blowing as say "Inception", most consisted of mild recommendations. Where do I fall in line? I found "Salt" to be an enjoyable summer blockbuster that is truly the epitome of pure escapist fun. However, let's not get too carried around here, "Salt" is highly flawed and only serves as a mild recommendation. Nevertheless, "Salt" still comes off as a decent film that boasts great performances and a break-neck pace.
"Salt" revolves around a CGI agent who accuses "Salt" (Jolie) of being a Russian spy. The government is all over "Salt" after this accusation which alarms them. However, "Salt" escapes from the government in hopes to find her missing husband, prove her right identity, and stay undercover. Although, the question is, is Salt a Russian spy or is it just a false accusation?
First off, the performances are certainly great. Angelina Jolie is amazing as our action heroine and does her job. Liev Schreiber is also great because of how relatable he is in tight situations and how his performances comes off very authentic. Lastly, Chiwetel Ejiofor is great in this film because he plays the suspicious Peabody and his performances is very realistic. Moreover, this film is paced very briskly. When the film's resolution came, I asked myself, "Is it over already?". Yes, the film is paced so fast that the film feels like half of its running time (which is short in itself) and it feels so quick because it's very indulging. Furthermore, the cinematography is certainly eye-popping and captures the tone and puts a small emphasis on the big budget. Additionally, the action is non-stop so as to not bore the viewer.
While the pros outweigh the cons, there are still flaws. First off, while the action set pieces are cool, they are slightly disappointing. Every time action graces itself onto the big screen, there are major cut-aways, so sometimes, it's very difficult to follow the action. In addition, the story is pretty weak. The premise is very paint-by-numbers, despite some twists. Moreover, this film starts out with a bang and ends with a whimper. The first half is a pretty slick action thriller and then the second half loses some steam and doesn't live up to its predecessing fifty minutes. Also, the ending is very predictable. Lastly, while this film is supposed to be mindless, there are some scenes that go so over-the-top, they distract the viewer from the film. Typically, unrealistic situations are welcome in a film, but for a film we're supposed to take seriously, it's very inexcusable.
Despite some inane moments and a weak plot, "Salt" is a pretty decent film. Sure it's paint- by-numbers and the film is bloated with action, but the break-neck pace and performances make it enjoyable. Now viewer beware, this film is no "Inception". "Inception" and "Salt" are in two different ballparks. "Inception" is a very complex film that you need your brain cap on in order to view the film. "Salt" is a very simple film where you need to turn your brain off in order to view the film. Overall, "Salt", while not highly comes mildly recommended.