Sweet Summer Confection

Rating: 10/10 (12 July 2003)

This is the kind of movie I want in my summer. It's not brain surgery, but it's just plain fun. A true ensemble piece, everyone shines in this movie. Mark Wahlberg reprises his "stoic leader" role from The Big Hit, and does fabulous things for your average white dress shirt. Seth Green looks like he had a great time making this movie, and has some of the best lines. Jason Statham makes me more of a fan every time I see him, and it was nice to see him play a more humorous character than those he's done in the past. And I'd never seen Mos Def before, but he was hysterical. Charlize Theron didn't have a whole lot to work with - her character seemed to be the least fleshed out - but I still enjoyed her performance. She's one of the few "It" actresses out there these days that I can stomach.
The action sequences were great, and the Mini Cooper chase made me want to take a trip to the local BMW dealer (which I'm sure was half the point). Those little things certainly took a beating in this film.
All in all, good summer fun. When you've had your fill of Charlie's Angels' camp, and don't want to put the brain power into something dramatic and serious, go see The Italian Job. It's fun!