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A Mom's Review
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See what Mom thinks of the movies that are out now.
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Articles
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| Around the World in 80 Days |
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admin writes, "Jules Verne's adventure, `Around the World in 80 Days,' has been adapted in practically every decade since the film industry was formed, most famously in a 1956 epic comedy, starring David Niven and Cantinflas. This latest incarnation of the famous race around the globe has taken a very different path: that of a Jackie Chan film, complete with heavily choreographed fight sequences and stacks of slapstick. If Jules Verne could see what Chan has done to his story, I'm sure he would weep for 80 days."
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Mercifully, `80 Days' is paced furiously enough to wiz by before the absence of quality can get a chance to sink in. Coraci knows what he's doing by mounting a brightly colored action film, and every scene of this picture contains some type of visual that keeps the mind at bay. However, there is a distinct lack of character in the characters found in this new incarnation, and the film is only marginally interested in Fogg's internal journey as he opens his eyes to people and cultures; that's been hastily replaced by a team of flipping ninjas and this `Jade Buddha' nonsense.
What really rescues the film are the performances outside of Chan. Steve Coogan is a perfect choice for the uptight, eternally curious Fogg. Coogan is blessed with crack comic timing and an appreciable level of wonder in his performance, helping to sell the raging artificial splendor of `80 Days.' Matching him note for note in the charm department is actress Cecile De France, a French actress making her Hollywood debut here as a Parisian distraction for Fogg and Passepartout. With her gigantic eyes and jubilant bubble gum spirit, De France is a welcomed sight to the insignificant role of the love interest, and her chemistry with Coraci's pace is a nice fit.
This wouldn't be a true `80 Days' production if there weren't any cameos. The quality of the secret stars presented here are a little low on wattage (Rob Schneider?), but fun nonetheless, including a turn by the current governor of California. They boost a sagging story, and add grease to an already blistering pace. Blink, and you actually might miss them.
Author: The Unemplyed Movie Critic :)
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Posted on Jun 23, 2004 14:52pm.
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