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Monday, March 5, 2012

[6.25/10] This Means War (2012)


This Means War (2012)

Brief review: Director McG haven't made a movie since the blockbuster "Terminator Salvation" back in 2009, and now he's back on track with "This Means War" - a well-made spy comedy that definitely achieves its purpose, which is to entertain. All the silliness and improbability aside, "This Means War" is an engaging and thoroughly enjoyable date movie with some spy elements thrown in, that surprises with wittiness, laugh-out-loud funny gags, lots of awkward, yet hilarious situations, and dirty tricks, that will make you laugh your a** off. It balances action, comedy and romance rather well, thanks to its witty script and McG's brisk, lively direction. There's also a lot of eye-candy in this film, for both man and women. It's full of pretty faces that exude charm, charisma, freshness and attractiveness, that makes it a very pleasant cinematic experience, on a purely visual level. The lovely Reese Witherspoon is alluring as always, boasting perfectly shaped legs as well as an undeniable charm and comedic talent. Her hilarious performance as Lauren is downright fascinating and that makes her the star of the movie. Tom Hardy has an incredibly strong screen presence and does a great job as one of the spies, but surprisingly, it's Chris Pine who delivers the more memorable character of the two. Til Schweiger's vicious performance suits him well, and Chelsea Handler is absolutely hysterical as the talky Trish.

Overall summary: Sure, it's silly, juvenile and often absurd, but "This Means War" is nonetheless an enjoyable, funny and surprisingly witty action comedy that benefits from its good-looking, talented cast, and embraces its delightful ridiculousness to deliver the laughs.

10 comments:

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Wasn't compelled to see it in the theater after the director's previous efforts, but at least now i know it's watchable.

George Beremov [Nebular] said...

Alex, is saw it in the theater, and a have no regrets. It was so much fun and I had a great time with it.

In fact, I have nothing against McG. I liked both Charlie's Angels movies as well as Terminator Salvation.

farawayeyes said...

I thought this looked like fun. Unfortunately, it's been and gone on the island, but there is always Netflix. I'll add it today.
Thanks.

George Beremov [Nebular] said...

farawayeyes, I really don't get all the negative feedback. It was hilarious and Reese delivered a superb comedic performance. Make sure you'll check this one out when it shows up on NetFlix. ;)

FilmMattic said...

Your use of the word "juvenile" could not have been any more luminous. Excellent interpretation.

I did catch this film on a lame Friday night showing. Wasn't eager to see it, but, as the saying goes, I bit the bullet. It was a mildly entertaining exhibition that embraced, with relentless fury, the conventions of absurdity. In other words, it was solid escapism.

Your review was spot-on, buddy!

George Beremov [Nebular] said...

Matty, I wasn't eager to see it either, but I ended up pleasantly surprised. The whole two guys fight over a girl thing was definitely juvenile, but I still had so much fun with it.

"solid escapism" is a pretty spot-on statement. :)

Thanks!

Maynard Morrissey said...

No way that I'll ever watch this. I stopped watching McG movies after Terminator Salvation :)

George Beremov [Nebular] said...

Maynard, there was nothing wrong with Terminator Salvation, nor with any of McG's films. He's not an amazing director, but his movies are ALWAYS entertaining.

It seem you prefer to pay for crappy horror movies, instead of having fun with films like this one. :P

Unknown said...

I've heard this was so bad it was good. You have a different spin all together. I do enjoy Chris, Tom and Reese so I will most definitely be watching this. It looks like lots of fun and your assessment with juvenile has me all set to laugh. Terrific review. :) Sorry I'm late to this party, sweetheart. Hugs!

George Beremov [Nebular] said...

Mel, yeah kinda. It was silly for sure, but I wouldn't call it bad. There were so many people laughing in the theater. And yes, it was juvenile, but in the best sense of the word. :) I think you'll enjoy this one so give it a go.

It's all right, hon. I know that things have been crazy with you lately, so don't apologize. Better late than never, right? :) Hugs!