Hancock

Rating:

* * *

Verdict:

It's a fun ride, but you'll ask "what on earth was that about"?

Hancock

is like watching a car crash in slow motion. Fortunately it's more of an amusing  one than tragic, but it's messy all the same.

The idea is a good one; John Hancock, played by the ever charismatic Will Smith, is a sarcastic, arrogant, drunk, destructive superhero who is ridiculed and reviled by his formerly adoring public. Until one day when he saves PR Executive Ray Embrey (Jason Bateman), and in return Ray suggests he help save and resurrect his public profile.

It's a smart, funny, action-packed set-up that doesn't take itself too seriously.  So far, so good. Then, as if screenwriters Vy Vincent Ngo and Vince Gillian suddenly realised they had no idea what should happen next, a ridiculous idea is plucked out of the air.   And while there is nothing like a good, unexpected twist, this one loses its thrill after 10 minutes as the film takes on a darker, confused tone. Director Berg (

The Kingdom

) is left trying to instill some depth and cohesion into what has become a plot filled with holes and contradictions.

All that said, it's still an amusing ride thanks to Smith, who no matter how hard he tries to be a jerk is still incredibly likeable. Bateman's understated comedic style complements Smith's more centre-stage approach, and Theron hardly plays the wallflower as Bateman's wife Mary. All in all, it's a bit of fun; just don't expect it to make any sense.

Francesca Rudkin

Cast:

Will Smith, Charlize Theron, Jason Bateman

Director:

Peter Berg

Running Time:

92 mins

Rating:

M (violence, offensive language)

Screening:

SkyCity, Hoyts and Berkeley Cinemas