lasvegasira

This is a somewhat decent film that unfortunately appears to be based on a horrible script. It's made mildly entertaining by the performances of its leading cast. Without Johnson and Reynolds (both of whom I normally enjoy immensely,) this film is DOA. The writing and plot are so amateurish, it's surprising the writer/director got the three leads to sign on the first place.

The story is a hodgepodge of set pieces from other, better films, including James Bond and Indiana Jones. Even the music cues are similar. And this is obviously not by accident since the Easter Eggs contained in the film directly reference those other franchises.

This could have a great film if the plot had been revised with another pass by a more proficient writer.

That said, it's not horrible, just completely forgettable ten minutes after watching it.

I didn't know what to expect when I first watched this film.

I like James Marsden and his work, but was unsure of his ability to pull of such a deep and tasty leading character. In fact, I don't know of many actors that could have filled this role. But Marsden did it. He showed his incredible talent and knocked it out of the stratosphere. To say he carried this film would be an understatement.

But let's not forget the talent and contributions of the others involved. Newcomer Ariebella Makana makes a cheesy splash as Marsden's daughter, while Jocelin Donahue shows her spicy side in a role that seemed as though it was written specifically for her.

The special effects were ground-breaking as well. Definitely nacho typical visuals.

I'll be going back for seconds of this potato feast!