Finally, just a great story!

Rating: Null/10 (14 June 2003)

Oh how I loved this movie! There's so much I want to say about it, but I don't want to spoil it for those of you who haven't seen it, because you really must see it yourself, preferably as soon as possible!
So, rather than write a full review, I'll just say that this movie is as great for what it is NOT as for what it is. This is a movie that does not rely on video-game special effects, gratuitous violence, sex or contrived romantic entanglements for its excitement and drama.
The Italian Job is just a great story with live action, genuine love and affection-- between male friends as well as a man and a woman, plot twists that are unpredictable, dialogue that is witty and contemporary, without being cliched, and, above all, well acted by a credibly eclectic ensemble cast.
It's also the best and most fun use of a car as a character I've ever seen. If this movie doesn't have you coveting a Mini Cooper halfway through, you're either in a coma or over seven feet tall.
With the Italian Job, someone sat down and wrote, directed and produced a movie that respects the intelligence, sense of humor and taste of the American movie-going public. It's about time!
Go see it, and send these people a message of thanks, and maybe they'll do it again (and again, and again, etc...).