Wolff rating: GOOD
Plot summary: Big rock is going to hit the Earth, and only a band of misfits can save it.
Biased, pithy comments: So, I didn't have much of an opinion as I went in to see this film, outside of being secure in the knowledge that the physics would be lame since, after all, this is by the same people who made ``The Rock'' and ``Top Gun.'' When I came out, I realized to my surprise that I had a good time despite the lame physics. Truly a hero story---sacrifice, bravery, and excitement. Though looking back on the film, people can point out about 90 things that were wrong (from the screwed-up shuttle jargon to the groundspeed readout in mph rather than kph), at the time I didn't notice because I was watching the pretty flashing lights, the impressive CG moments (like Paris as radioactive glass), and the dashing and heroic deeds by men who rose to the occasion. Lost in the middle of the flexing testosterone and silly space stuff is Thornton playing the only really three-dimensional character, and doing it well. Probably not a film that will stand the test of time, but certainly an enjoyable evening.
Other Notes: Scenes of Americans on Earth shot in slow-motion on preternaturally sunny days kept reminding me of Dr. Pepper commercials. It turns out the director shot numerous music videos and Nike, Coca-Cola, Budweiser, and Miller commercials.
How many times I have seen it: x1
Starring: Bruce Willis, Billy Bob Thornton, Liv Tyler, Ben Affleck, Will Patton, Steve Buscemi, William Fichtner.
Directed by: Michael Bay