Delicious, an improvement, enigmatic, hot, and saucy, are all words that come to mind when asked to describe Will Smith’s latest adventure. Yes, this is more of a misadventure and perhaps represents his largest belly-flop ever, but in the same vein as Adam Sandler, we must assign credit where it is due. They are both willing to take major career risks. Perhaps someday these two juggernauts will star in a picture together.
My companion to the movie screening agrees with me: Sometimes no explanation is better than the one comic book authors provide. There is no mutation or disfigurement or alien superhero. Instead there is Hancock, an African American alcoholic with superhuman powers, imperviousness to bullets or fire, and possessing unlimited strength. The only negative aspect of this film is Jason Bateman who sounds, looks, and acts like a completely spineless weasel. Will Smith is pure gold yet Bateman is barely coppertone. One shines with natural comedic talent whereas the other forces every word in such a way as to make observant critics belligerent.
Unexpectedly Charlize Theron plays a central role in this film. At first we noticed her "new" physical appearance. I speculated Botox, but it has been pointed out to me that she has lost a considerable amount of weight. This is how Hollywood works; anorexia or something close to it is the secret to remaining competitive after 30.
The storyline is a standard morality v. immorality plot. Hancock evolves quickly from an hilarious bum with super powers to a public relations specialist with Bateman’s help. This destroys the initially humorous premise which is a shame. Nonetheless, Theron and Smith deliver the goods no matter how bizarre the plot may seem.
This is not a summer blockbuster but it truly is the only film I had not already watched at the Cineplex.
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