"Cash don't buy you guts, kid, or brains - and you're short on both."It is unfortunate that the critics have given this movie such as harsh kicking, as it is simply a Summer popcorn-action-blockbuster that is as shallow and simple as the original TV show - nothing more - and relentlessly entertaining. It is curiously similar to The Losers, but far more enjoyable. Carnahan directs as if this is Smokin' Aces for children, keeping the screen busy to the point of hysteria, with editing so frantic that it can render even some action sequences numbing. The big set-pieces are jaw-dropping and mind-bogglingly stupid, and the bare-bones script is utterly forgettable; having been stuck in Development Hell for years, The A-Team movie perhaps needed Carnahan's manic approach to paper over the thin material and concept. The four leads work together easily: Liam Neeson grounds the movie with a serious and considered turn as Hannibal; Bradley Cooper's 'Faceman' (who should be renamed 'Shirtlessman' in this movie) is uneven but has more depth than the original incarnation; Quinton 'Rampage' Jackson unsurprisingly lacks Mr T's screen presence as B.A. Baracus but works the comedy well; and Sharlto Copley is clearly having a ball as Murdock. Make no mistake, this is very much a boys' film - the female of the species is not well served here. There are moments when the humour shines (notably a 3D gag that is so obvious but very well executed) and the basic thriller plot engages, but the breathless race to get to the next big set-up gives the film - and the audience - no time to breathe. The A-Team provides an undemanding but disposable couple of hours' entertainment, and the nicely-set-up sequel - if it happens - could deliver more of the same.
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