‘Charlie’s Angels’ offer summertime fun
As I watched “Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle” in a theater full of
people that seemed to be enjoying themselves immensely, the tune
“Girls Just Want to Have Fun” kept running through my head. After
all, that’s what this picture is all about -- having fun.
Not that it matters, but the plot involves the theft of two rings
that when put together form a database of every person in the witness
protection program. Better to not ask why the federal government
would be so stupid as to risk its most important informants by
producing “decoder rings.” With a movie such as this, plot holes big
enough to drive a truck through are the norm.
Back from the first film are Natalie (Cameron Diaz), Dylan (Drew
Barrymore) and Alex (Lucy Liu). There is great chemistry between the
three women and most of the film’s energy comes from the obvious fun
they have with their respective roles. The script puts the Angels in
several situations where they get to demonstrate “Matrix-like”
martial arts moves while simultaneously changing from one outrageous
costume to another.
Gone this time is Bill Murray, but Bernie Mack does a credible job
as the insecure newcomer “Jimmy” Bosley. Unfortunately, Luke Wilson
is completely wasted as Natalie’s boyfriend and is given nothing to
do. Matt LeBlanc is dismal as Jason, Alex’s semi-estranged boyfriend.
LeBlanc stoops to recreating his Joey character on “Friends,” even
playing a struggling actor.
Demi Moore costars in a much publicized role as ex-Angel Madison
Lee. Moore looks great and teasingly toys with good Angel/bad Angel
aspect of her part. It’s good to see her back in a major role.
Hopefully, this will be the start of a fully realized comeback and
she can finally deliver on some of her early promise.
While the kingpin behind the ring theft is unknown, likely
suspects include the creepy Thin Man (Crispin Glover) and Dylan’s
ex-boyfriend Seamus (Justin Theroux). “Full Throttle” is full of fun
cameos by such stars as Jaclyn Smith, the Olson twins, Bruce Willis,
and Eric Bogosian as a corpse. The script amusingly pays homage to
such films as “Flashdance,” “Raiders of the Lost Ark” and “White
Heat.”
The sense of excitement and action is greatly enhanced by the
memorable soundtrack featuring well-matched songs by Pink, Nickelback
(with Kid Rock), David Bowie, Bon Jovi and even MC Hammer. Be warned,
“Full Throttle” is a loud movie due to the thumping soundtrack,
numerous explosions, car crashes and other mayhem.
“Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle” is a summer movie in every
sense. The plot doesn’t matter and the stunts are humanly impossible.
It is silly, nonsensical, largely forgettable, but surprisingly lots
of fun.
* VAN NOVACK, 50, is the director of institutional research at Cal
State Long Beach and a Huntington Beach resident.
‘Whale Rider’ an enjoyable reprieve
“Whale Rider,” an independent film from Newmarket Films hit the
box offices with a splash.
The Maori’s chiefs have been the male descendants of Paikea, the
Whale Rider, for the past 1,000 years. When Pai is born the tradition
ends. Being female, Pai was expected to be a follower not a leader of
the inhabitants of the small village off the New Zealand coast.
Tragic events related to Pai’s birth caused her father, Porourangi,
to abandon her and his home to seek solace in Germany. Pai is raised
by her grandparents. Her grandfather Koro, an aging chieftain,
abandons her emotionally for the perceived shame she’s brought their
family.
At 12, Pai’s deep love and respect for the cold and aloof Koro is
evident in her actions. Pai learns, respects and follows the customs
and beliefs of the Maori. She works to keep the myths and traditions
alive among her peers and the adults in the village. Pai’s attempts
fail to show Koro that her knowledge and dedication, rather than her
sex, should earn her the birthright of being chief.
When Koro begins his search for a new chief, Pai’s determination
and accomplishments in learning the secret rituals traditionally
taught to males causes further strain between them. Pai’s desire to
heal the rift creates unforeseen circumstances for her, Koro, and the
community.
“Whale Rider” offers a stark, creative contrast to summer action
movies. All the elements of the story move at a slower pace in a
relaxing, isolated seaside environment. Pai’s courage and actions
easily draw the audience into the drama building between her and
Koro. Watching “Whale Rider” is like taking a virtual vacation that’s
enjoyable long after you arrive back home. “Whale Rider” is a
terrific hero’s journey film for the entire family.
* PEGGY J. ROGERS, 40, produces commercial videos and
documentaries.
All the latest on Orange County from Orange County.
Get our free TimesOC newsletter.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Daily Pilot.