Well, I went to see _Wild Wild West_ yesterday, despite the horrid reviews and general panning of this film by critics.
First, I like Will Smith, and wanted to see how they handled his being a black James West.
Second, I love Kevin Kline, and any film he's in can't be all bad.
Third, I used to love this TV series.
So, how was it? Better than I expected based on critic reviews (only reinforcing my belief that critics are worthless when it comes to being a barometer of what *I* like in film). Smith played West very well, I thought, and provided a fresh take on the character. While his West was similar to the old West character created by Robert ? (can't think of his last name at the moment), he also added to it by bringing the situation of being a free, and powerful black man in the post-war US. It wasn't the focus of the character, but the issue of being black in this time period was used effectively, I thought, and also introduced some of the fighting that occurred.
Kline was terrific, as usual, adding just the right touch to Artemis Gordon, and not quite as subservient a character as the old one from the TV series.
Even Kenneth Branagh was good in his character, with just the right touch of evil behind his Southern gentleman to make it believable. His characterization was ALMOST over the top, but the moments of pure evil he let show through really did temper that exaggerated gentlemanly facade just enough to bring the charactersome meat.
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Finally, I've read that this film didn't really have a story. Honestly, I didn't see this. The story is straightforward, and somewhat minimalist, but there none the less. Southern general becomes a maniac and tries to take over the world after losing the war (and a whole lot more, but that's giving away too much).
Now, one would only say there was no story if one believed all the Bond pictures had no story or plot. They are all based on asimilar type of scenario.
So, it worked for me. I'd say this was an enjoyable time at the movies, with great special effects and some good clean westernfun. I wouldn't go expecting the best picture in the world, but this was hardly the bomb I half-expected given what critics have said so far. My guess is that this will be a hit despite the reviews.
