"Sommer’s popcorn thrill ride"
Had to admit, I gave a slight groan upon learning that another 80’s toy franchise had joined the transition to the big screen after the success of “Transformers”. I wasn’t all that excited with this “joining the bandwagon thing.”
The biggest question I asked was “Wasn’t the transition done a bit too late?” Back in the 80’s they were on top of the cartoon world and its action figures sold like hot cakes, but could the same magic carry over to today’s movie audience?
But I gave it a chance, watched it, and my question was answered.
The answer came in the guise of the guy who called the shots.
Director Stephen Sommers.
Sommers, who gave film fans movies that featured thrilling action scenes with attached storylines (The Mummy, Mummy Returns and Van Helsing) was given the challenging task of reviving an old brand into something fresh and engaging.
And pulling it off he did.
Sommers retained the names of the G.I. Joe fan favorites (unlike in Transformers) and took advantage of today’s CGI to produce a good film for both casual moviegoers and diehard fans alike.
The result is non-stop action that does not slow down in narrative pace; even the flashbacks featured explosive thrills and spills.
The highlight in the film for me as a longtime fan of the franchise was when Snake Eyes and Storm Shadow first faced off. To me this was the equivalent of Optimus Prime transforming from truck to robot mode in 2007's "Transformers". The moment both characters' swords clashed, I immediately clenched my fist in satisfaction.
"Yes!"
A sequel is in order.
And thanks to director Sommers, the G.I. Joe magic is back in full force.
FILM RATING: 3 1/2 stars (out of 5)
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