The Rundown (2003)

In contrast to the growing wave of self-serious actionstravaganzas like The Matrix Revolutions, this is a film that remembers what an action spectacle is supposed to do -- provide the audience with a sense of fun. Messr. Rock has a surprising amount of screen presence (like the film, he's both good-natured and badass), and his sense of professionalism keeps the film grounded even when it flies off into Warner-esque fits of exaggeration. The occasional bursts of serious weirdness are much appreciated, and the comic relief characters are more entertaining than usual -- Christopher Walken, in particular, gives his oddest and funniest performance in some time. Your money would be well-spent just to hear him nattering on about the Tooth Fairy. Gets excessive near the end, as these things are wont to do, but hey -- it kept me entertained.

Grade: B