sak007

Action rules all else -- plot, dialog, character development and all the other strengths that made Casino Royale (and, for that matter, From Russia With Love over 40 years ago) so enjoyable and satisfying. After choosing Marc Forster for his great strengths in telling a story, he had almost no story to tell. Forster's substantial ability to draw the audience in emotionally (as in Monster's Ball and Finding Neverland) was totally untapped here. What could have been a great extension on building a character that we are truly emotionally invested in became an exercise in explosions, jerky motion filming, and absurd situations. Quite a disappointment.

Unlike the TV series, don't expect a light, hip, pastel colored movie. This movie is very dark with superb cinematography and style typical of Michael Mann. Not a lot of action, but when it comes, it's memorable with a high "wow" factor.

Colin Farell is surprisingly good in a fairly rich Crocker role, while the Tubbs' role is not developed enough to give Jamie Foxx a chance to shine.

Very good supporting characters and acting. The "bad guys" are very solid, with especially good performances by Luis Tosar and John Ortiz. The "good guys" are also solid, with an especially memorable performance by Elizabeth Rodriguez.

Although the plot line and dialog can be somewhat confusing at times, the overall impact of the movie is high. Well worth seeing but don't expect good looking fluff.