Top Box Office Movies

Spy Kids (2001) Dimension Pictures
1 hr. 24 mins.
Starring: Antonio Banderas, Carla Gugino, Alexa Vega, Daryl Sabara, Alan Cumming.
Directed by: Robert Rodriguez

Spy Kids

Rating:

E-MAIL GIANCARLO DE LISI

Photo: Dimension Films

While retaining all the characteristics of a conventional action flick ' Spy Kids' will appeal to both adults and children alike. From its' opening sequence displaying its' rough, taut adventurous look to the subtle transition to our child heroes, this film is incredibly well done and is quite surprising.

Now before we get ahead of ourselves and condone it as being a truly great film - it is not. Yet, my biggest revelation is that Director Robert Rodriguez has been known for lower caliber affairs such as 'Desperado', 'The Faculty' and 'From Dusk 'Til Dawn'. These films to say the least have been violent opuses that have exposed us to one graphic side of Rodriguez. Here it is no secret that he is making a film that his children can actually watch - and furthermore enjoy.

Antonio Banderas and Carla Gugino who receive top billing in the film are cast aside as Daryl Sabara (Juni) and Alexa Vega (Carmen) set out to rescue their kidnapped parents. Apparently, their parents were also spies but since having children, they seemingly have lost their skills and thus setting the plot for a full-blown rescue attempt. Here the context allows these children to utilize rocket packs, beat up on living, walking thumb people (do not ask) and use incredible gadgets that have all passed through a blue screen.

The delicious Alan Cumming (Titus, Josie and the Pussycats) who is fantastic even in the weakest of characterizations is great as a TV children's show host who is bent on eliminating all spies. The great Tony Shalhoub (The Siege, Big Night) also joins him as his Minion named Minion.

It is apparent that Rodriguez has seen his share of children's fare and that he has done his research when it comes to the children's department. This is a cute little family film that is packed with gadgetry and special effects. It seems that almost every scene passed through some sort of digital imagery processing, resulting in this film containing a lot of eye candy.

To say the least it is well made. And while the holes in this film are pervasive and many, it does not set out to be a masterpiece, but more so a family film that can bring families all together. Need proof? Witness the last line of the film uttered by Alexa Vega's Carmen character. While speaking to their superior, the self mocking George Clooney in a cameo resulting in a successful attempt at leaving a sequel open she states: 'Spy Work- that's easy. Keeping a family together, that's the difficult part. And that is the mission worth fighting for'.

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Giancarlo De Lisi
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