CHICAGO – If you’ve never seen the farcical ensemble theater chestnut “Noises Off,” you will see no better version than on the Steppenwolf Theatre stage, now at their northside Chicago venue through November 3rd. For tickets and details for this riotous theater experience, click NOISES OFF.
JIM reviews film “G.I. JOE: THE RISE OF COBRA ” -- Wowed by Loud, Unbowed, Uncowed & ‘Proud’ =
“G.I. JOE: THE RISE OF COBRA ” — Wowed by Loud, Unbowed, Uncowed & ‘Proud’ =
Rating: 8 of 10 stars.
Keeping in mind that this film was based on toys, I EXPECTED it to be a bit looney & cartoon-y. Thus, I could easily overlook the “illogical” elements (like ice that descends rather than floats in water, people not getting hurt tho in close proximity to explosions, etc). CHANNING TATUM plays military man Duke, who partners with periodically-comical soldier Heavy Duty (ADEWALE AKINNUOYE-AGBAJE). On a mission, they’re attacked by “Cobra” forces with superior technology, commanded by Channing’s ex-girlfriend Ana (SIENNA MILLER) who hates him because he allowed her brother Rex (JOSEPH GORDON-LEVITT) to get killed in the past. Channing & Adewale are recruited to the G.I. Joe special forces by General Hawk (an over-the-top DENNIS QUAID).
Flashbacks give the backgrounds, & special effects & a bunch of cool, clever & well-designed gizmos, gadgets & sets are used to tell how the Joes fight Cobra’s plans to control the world with metal-eating explosives (designed to ruin the Eiffel Tower), etc. There’s loads of action, & tho nonsensical at times, I found it well-done & FUN (with a clear “set-up” for an eventual SEQUEL).,