Screenscenes

“Shanghai Knights” Starring Jackie Chan,
Owen Wilson Directed David Dobkin

“Shanghai Knights,” the sequel to “Shanghai
Noon,” mechanically assembles all the necessary ingredients
needed to create a marketable Hollywood film. Jackie Chan supplies
acrobatic martial arts action, Owen Wilson contributes comedy and
Fann Wong provides romance. However, Chan is the only one who
strengthens this film. While Chan’s elaborate fight scenes
are entertaining, the rest of the film lacks plot, meaning or
ingenuity. Chan’s earlier work, such as the “Rush
Hour” films, succeeded in providing significant action and
sufficient comic relief. However, while “Shanghai
Knights” integrates all the essential elements for a great
action film, it is comically inconsonant. The comedic aspect of
this film suffers from a horrible script (from the writers of
TV’s “Smallville” no less), which even Owen
Wilson can only make tepidly amusing. The comedic relief stems from
Wilson’s delivery and tone of voice, instead of clever
remarks. For this reason, Wilson does not similarly complement
Chan’s talent as Chris Tucker did in the “Rush
Hour” series. The film’s romantic subplot is somewhat
languid and seems bland and ubiquitous. Avid Jackie Chan fans will
enjoy this film. However the only one laughing will be the
filmmakers upon your purchase of a ticket. -Clark Meyer

“Deliver Us From Eva” Starring Gabrielle
Union, LL Cool J Directed by Gary Hardwick

In the days before the coming of Hallmark’s savior,
Valentine’s Day, the market is awash with the same old
lovey-dovey fodder. Hoping to add some flavor is “Deliver Us
From Eva,” the latest offering from Gary Hardwick, writer and
director of “The Brothers.” The film focuses on the
title character’s refusal to exhale, favoring castration over
courtship. To the rescue is LL Cool J, who is hired to knock that
mama out and make Eva an “around the way girl.” Cool
J’s performance is nothing phenomenal, but he fits the bill
as a serviceable leading man. Not that there was much to work with
““ the plot runs thin ““ which happens in most romantic
comedies. And while it tries to put a PC spin on black lifestyle,
the film chooses to have it both ways by including some glaring, if
harmless, stereotypes. But for all the unholy crimes committed,
there is one true revelation: Gabrielle Union, as the shrewd sister
centerpiece. After paying her dues as “the anonymous black
girl” in teen movies (“10 Things I Hate About
You,” “She’s All That”) and on
“Friends,” Union carries the film effortlessly with her
steely eyes and sharp tongue. Whether she’s wielding a
cleaver or mustering a frightening fervor for directing a Gospel
choir, Union proves she can bring it every time. “Deliver us
from Eva” has its share of faults and frustrations, but its
purpose is neither to elevate the cinematic form nor push for
social progress. It simply wants to tell this familiar tale with
enough glee to make you want to laugh, sigh, and cuddle. It may be
a modest crusade, but I say “Amen” to that. -Paul
Mendoza