 Universal // Buy from Amazon.comIn these interlocking tales of high stakes and low lifes, Mob boss Primo Sparazza has taken out a hefty contract on Buddy "Aces" Israel (Piven)--a sleazy magician who has agreed to turn state's evidence against the Vegas mob. The FBI, sensing a chance to use this small-time con to bring down big-target Sparazza, places Aces into protective custody-under the supervision of two agents (Reynolds and Liotta) at Aces' Lake Tahoe hideout. When word of the price on Aces' head spreads into the community of ex-cons and cons-to-be, it entices bounty hunters, thugs-for-hire, smokin' hot assassins and double-crossing mobsters to join in the hunt. With all eyes on Tahoe, this rogues' gallery collides in a comic race to hit the jackpot and rub out Aces. Joe Carnahan is part of the new generation of do-it-yourself Hollywood writer/directors - in the same vein as Robert Rodriguez, Quentin Tarantino, and even Kevin Smith & Wes Anderson, Carnahan does his films his way, screw everyone else. His first major debut, "Narc," was a very gritty affair that was entertaining, but ultimately very dark and dreary. For "Smokin' Aces," he's assembled a story and (huge) cast that keeps the action and excitement rushing forward at breakneck pace, but to his credit, still manages to force in some genuine sincerity and true emotion amongst all of the gunplay. Truthfully, I was expecting a shoot-'em-up, balls-to-the-walls action flick with snappy dialogue and memorable characters... and not much more. While it did have all of those traits, the film seemed to slowly wind its way down a darker, more serious path, winding up at a very hard-hitting closing scene. Given the lunacy of the first third of the film, I would've never expected to wind up there, but it was a very fun and entertaining journey getting to that point. Terrific action sequences, very memorable charcters, and truly top-notch performances by both Ryan Reynolds and Jeremy Piven - check this one out, you won't be disappointed. Video A gorgeous 2.35:1 anamorphic widescreen transfer is a beauty to behold - this film is beautifully shot, and this DVD transfer really does it justice! Audio A booming Dolby 5.1 surround mix is electrifying, especially when those 50mm rifle shots start booming through your surrounds - zoinks! Extras Closing Thoughts Fun, entertaining action flick + large assortment of extras = solid night's entertainment, definitely recommended Bonus - Online Game! There is only one rule: KILL BUDDY ISRAEL! You will be dealt a series of cards. Flip them over by moving your mouse over them. When you find Buddy Israel, shoot him by clicking your left mouse button. Be quick and don’t shoot anyone else or the game is over! Click here to play. Labels: review |
