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Release Date: July 29th, 2005 by Columbia Pictures. The Cast: Josh Lucas, Jessica Biel, Jamie Foxx, Sam Shepard. Directed by Rob Cohen. BASIC PREMISE: Three military pilots (Lucas, Biel and Foxx) must take control of an fighter aircraft with artificial intelligence that gives it a mind of its own—and threatens to start a war. ENTERTAINMENT VALUE: There is plenty of action and explosion to please fans of the action/adventure genre. Most of the movie takes place in the sky--and these all of these scenes give an adrenaline rush with the spectacular special effects as the aircrafts zoom at Mach speeds. The plot takes a while to really kick into gear, as EDI, a computer with artificial intelligence, gradually learns more information and dangerously takes control of the aircraft. At this point everything becomes a thrilling cat-and-mouse chase through the sky with some suspense. There is not much character development, but at least the three pilots are good-looking--especially Jessica Biel. It is a pleasure to watch Jamie Foxx after his remarkable performance in Ray, although he doesn't have much material to work with in this film. A few scenes drag and feel redundant, but they are quickly forgotten once the action picks up. There is one surprising plot twist, but it feels too contrived. EDI does pose a serious threat, but there would have been much more tension if EDI had more of a personality. There is one scene that suggests that it has downloaded every song through the internet, which is interesting, but it would have been more interesting if it had a particular favorite song. Nonetheless, as an action movie, this movie delivers the goods but it is rather straightforward without any bonuses such as romance or drama. SPIRITUAL VALUE: The concept of artificial intelligence has been explored in many movies in the past and it still remains intriguing until this very day. There isn't much to think about throughout this film because its focus is mainly on the action. There are no heavy speeches that elaborate on the concept. It is very frightening to think about what would be the consequences EDI would take over an aircraft in real life. This is only a movie and, fortunately, it is one with a satisfying, yet predictable ending. INSULT TO YOUR INTELLIGENCE: There are a few scenes that are contrived, predictable, and that drag. THE BOTTOM LINE: A movie that falls short on drama and romance, but is heavy on action with many exciting scenes with amazing special effects that give you a rush of adrenaline. Despite that Jamie Foxx's presence, this is no Oscar material but it is quite acceptable as an exciting summer blockbuster. RECOMMENDED WAY TO WATCH: Movie Theater (1st Run) Main Page Alphabetical Menu The "S" Menu ______________________________________________________ |
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