‘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.