May 31, 2011

Snakes on a Plane


My rating: 2.5 of 5 stars


If you aren't already afraid of snakes, you might be after this film. Of course, it only features the most lethal and exotic of the bunch. Someone has planned a surprise attack of a very unique nature - snakes hidden away in the plane are being driven crazy by pheromones in the plane's air system. What does that mean for the passengers? Try to stay calm and avoid the slithering masses because they are out for blood. Not everyone will survive even after the landing. Anti-venom is hard to find normally even if you know the type of snake that bit you. With this free for all in the air it's a risk just to try to treat you on the ground.

May 30, 2011

Brokeback Mountain


My rating: 2 of 5 stars


Ennis and Jack meet by chance herding sheep up on Brokeback Mountain one year. They each go their own way to live the lives they think are expected of them - marrying, having kids, working, trying to save money to buy their own ranches. Four years down the road they find themselves once again in each others lives. Their affair leads to Ennis' divorce and lost custody of his children. Struggling even harder between what they think is right and what they want, things continue to spiral out of control. Nothing turns out the way anyone plans.

Riverdance

Riverdance (1995)

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


This group is amazing and thrilling every time you watch them. Having just seen their live farewell tour with my mother-in-law last week, I couldn't help picking up a copy of this gem. I grew up watching my parent's old VHS copy and never got tired of it. Gorgeous Celtic music sets the stage as this troupe dances in perfect synchronization. Some instrumental music, some singing, tap dancing, ballet, flamingo, and even some hip hop dance styles intermixed; there's something for everyone on this stage.

Walk The Line


My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Follow Johnny Cash from boyhood to stardom as he loses his brother to an accident with a mill saw, faces the disappointment of his parents, struggles with his wife's desires against his own dreams, crashes due to a raging drug addiction, and nearly loses everything he had before. In comes fellow performer and friend, June Carter. Only with her help and his unfailing desire to be with her does Johnny climb out of the depths he'd fallen into and rebuild his life on the stage with his new family.

May 29, 2011

Vampire Kisses 8: Cryptic Cravings


My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Another great installation to this series. Probably one of my few complaints would be that the books are just so short. I always want more when they end. This one covered Raven and Alexander's birthdays while still dealing with the Maxwell's recent mischief and Becky learning the truth about vampires. Kind of think it would be nice to get some kind of real ceremony for Raven and Alexander after all this beating around the bush the whole series, but still glad Raven caught on to Jagger's trick before it caused any irreparable harm; especially to Sebastian. Luna still makes me leery, so I can't say between her behavior and trying to trick someone into being hers for eternity that I really feel sorry for her. I do kind of wish they could establish Sebastian's ability to maybe keep a real secret so they could fill him in on Phoenix. While I'm glad he finally saw the light as far as the Maxwell's actions went, his misconstrued negative thoughts and feelings towards Raven leave a bad aftertaste. Maybe in the next book that will get smoothed over more. Then again, they're likely in for even more chaos with Alexander's sister coming to town.

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Kung Fu Panda 2


My rating: 4 of 5 stars


I was a little afraid of how this would turn out as it is a sequel. Presently surprised and pleased to say I honestly enjoyed the show. A lighter film with some kung fu action in the mix, this is a fun film for all ages. Po is still as awkward as ever, but he's finally found a place in with The Five. This one takes us back to his hometown as he relearns where he came from and decides who he will continue to be. This is one humorous panda that is full of surprises. Also really liked Tigress a lot more in this film. Very well done for a sequel.

X

X (2001)

My rating: 3.5 of 5 stars


This series is both good and sad at the same time. The art is pretty to look at, the story line is interesting, there are a lot of good observations and lessons throughout the film, and yet the conclusion is so sad. A few choice characters do get to survive the final battle, but the majority of the characters, including the main one pictured on the cover, all sacrifice their own lives for their few friends to survive. Perhaps what makes it even worse is that they all die at each others hands. Pay attention while watching this one or you just might miss a turn of events that really makes a difference.

Kate Daniels 2: Magic Burns


My rating: 3 of 5 stars


This one picked up a lot from the first one. Still took awhile to read it, but that was just because I've been busy and really tired lately, not because of a fault in the book. To the contrary, I was constantly wanting to pick this back up and finish it, even when I knew I was too tired to keep my eyes open any longer. Especially got a kick out of the break down Curran's courting habits. A few more pieces of the puzzle coming together as far as Kate's identity. I can't decide yet if I do or don't like the idea of her with Curran. They're an interesting pair, that's for sure.

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May 28, 2011

Old Dog and the Christmas Wish


My rating: 4 of 5 stars


My friend loves dogs and found this Christmas shopping this year. When we pulled it off the bookshelf to pack up (have to empty the house for re-flooring), she handed it to me and said I absolutely had to read it. Takes all of maybe 5 minutes to read, but it is really cute and a touching Christmas story. Remembering that my husband also loves dogs, I ended up asking her if we could borrow it instead of putting it in the box so that he could read it as well. The pictures are a lot of fun and it's a simple, enjoyable story to read. What's not to like?

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May 27, 2011

True Blood Vol. 1: All Together Now


My rating: 2 of 5 stars


Based on the TV series, this is definitely for mature audiences only and honestly not as good as either the TV or original book series. Primarily a biggest fan of the book series anyways, this didn't exactly hit the mark with me. A good tide over of yet more trouble and background info on the main cast. Not as much as far as additional storyline or originality, let alone flowing well with the other mediums already out. The artwork is inconsistent in quality, but largely done in the same style as many of the adaptation graphic novels currently being released.

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Mercy Thompson 2: Moon Called Part 1


My rating: 3 of 5 stars


It's interesting to see how many popular series are being turned into graphic novels lately. Adds a whole different dimension to the story when overlapped with the artist's work. Short of making a movie of it, it really brings the characters to life even more. The bonus story on Mac's past is also interesting while being a little disappointing too. There isn't much besides what we've already gleaned from Mercy's telling in it and the art is obviously poorly done. They just didn't care about it as much as the main series, which leaves some of the panels look rather distorted and strange. Would have been a lot better if they'd kept the same quality standards from the main part of the book.

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May 25, 2011

Sin City

Sin City (2005)

My rating: 2.5 of 5 stars


An adaption of four short story comics revolving around cops, mobs, and prostitutes. The stories play through with various characters only to come back to their final conclusions 8 years later. A little jumbled and not the best film wise. The cinematography is interesting though as it is largely done in black and white with only select people or pieces in color, adding a unique emphasis to certain parts that would otherwise be lost. Another Bruce Willis film for the collection.

May 24, 2011

School for Scoundrels


My rating: 1.5 of 5 stars


A meter maid decides to take a secret class about building his self-esteem leading to a whole host of misconceptions, flat out lies, and trouble all around. I will admit to some glee with the tennis scene. Had to get back at the dirt bags somehow, and a couple well placed tennis balls were rather amusing. Maybe that's my old tennis days coming through with a little bit of vengeance. Overall the movie was rather flat. It did fortunately all work out when the truth finally came to light under rather shocking circumstances (literally). Amusing for a one time watch but not likely to pick up again.

Pirates of the Caribbean 4: On Stranger Tides


My rating: 3 of 5 stars


As a stand alone movie, this was decent. As a sequel, it's a let down. The previous main couple, Will Turner and Elizabeth Swan, are MIA for this film, replaced by a priest and a mermaid for the lover's role. The two disappear into the depths at the end, so it's unlikely they'll make a return appearance. Barbarossa, Jack and the Pearl's first mate are the only characters that really continue from the other films. Blackbeard just makes you hope he dies quickly, which of course he doesn't. Guess they had to make him live up to his reputation. The mermaids were probably the most fascinating part of the film. The overall detail and writing in this one just feels very lacking. Of course the conclusion has Jack running off on yet another fool errand to reclaim the Pearl and go after some other new prize, so we know there's more to come. Hopefully it will return to the former glory of the original trilogy and not follow in this one's footsteps.

May 23, 2011

Gulliver's Travels


My rating: 3 of 5 stars


This was my dad's pick for his birthday night movie. Mom gave him a bad time for the first part about how "disgusting" the main actor was. Even she was laughing by the end of the film though and we all had to admit that it was decent. In all honesty, I felt a little bad for the majority of the little people, especially as they slaved away to make Gulliver's personal mansion, coffee and entertainment center. Ever hear of too much greed? The lessons in the conclusion and end of the film made it worth wanting to throw a few darts at him though. Overall, decent and more on the fun side of things.

Saw

Saw (2004)

My rating: 1 of 5 stars


A lot of repeat scenery, probably keeping to a lower budget. From the title and knowing it was part of my husband's collection of horror films, I expected a creepy bad guy going around with a saw. What I didn't expect was a crazy mastermind that locks his victims in compromising situations where the only way out is to kill others and maybe even yourself. In the case of the main two victims here, they are locked in a rundown old bathroom, chained to opposite sides of the wall with instructions to kill one if the others family is to be saved. Their only reachable weapon is one saw for each of them - too weak to cut through their chains, but strong enough to cut through their own flesh and bone. The cover would be more accurate with a severed leg as that's what it takes to form any hope of escape. Hard to run missing a leg while bleeding out and having no clue where you are. The clock is ticking and no one is meant to survive.

May 22, 2011

187

187 (1997)

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


Written by a teacher about a teacher. This story portrays what happens when teachers are in a bad neighborhood trying to help bad kids and how it can all spiral out of control. Ultimately leading to all the main protagonists deaths, this story makes you wonder just what is too high a price to pay for something. No definite answers or conclusions are ever really reached. More like it leaves you to wonder and make up your own mind about what happened.

May 21, 2011

National Security


My rating: 3 of 5 stars


A black man has a skewed sense of reality, happens to be a compulsive liar, works a security guard and wants to be cop. A white man was a cop, goes to jail because of the black man's accusations and winds up as a security guard. What these two don't realize is that their paths will cross yet again to uncover who the city's real bad cops are, resulting in the promotion to partners on the cop force. Now if only this crazy pair can manage some good in with all that mayhem they cause.

Narc

Narc (2002)

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


Undercover cops, narcotics, drug rings and an investigation into another cop's murder. Not things that should mix together, as proven by just how out of control this film gets. Another for the list of decent first watch but not likely to revisit.

Nadia: The Secret of Blue Water


My rating: 2.5 of 5 stars


Definitely an older film. The art style is very different from newer releases. The narration drives me crazy. The characters alternate between likable and wondering what's wrong with them. The plot line is predictable and similar to many other series out there. Only have the first half of the series, courtesy of my brother-in-law. I can see why he didn't want to continue with the series though. Okay for a first time run. Not likely to watch again.

May 19, 2011

Nacho Libre


My rating: 1 of 5 stars


For a comedy, this show bounces all over the place and honestly just drove me crazy. The main character, Ignacio, is a orphaned monk with a obsession for wrestling. It takes a nun he's head over heels for and a forced confession to the entire monastery, resulting in his expulsion, to attempt a change of purpose behind his fighting. By some miracle he manages to pull off the most awkward win in history, giving them the money for the orphans to go on a field trip instead of always being stuck inside. A one-time watcher if you want some over-the-top comedy. Not something I'd recommend for a repeat performance.

May 18, 2011

The Manchurian Candidate


My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Soldiers from the Gulf War have been brainwashed to put one of their own in the White House. What their new handlers didn't expect was for these two soldiers start piecing the truth together. Now attempting to control a quickly unraveling scenario, one soldier lays his life down to end the façade while the other still ponders over what truly happened to his unit. Not much about the war itself, but more about what happened after to this one select unit. A very different type of war film from what is commonly seen.

May 17, 2011

Raising Hope


My rating: 1 of 5 stars


Honestly the only reason I've seen any of this show is because it's on right after Glee and we're often too lazy to turn it off if we want background noise while we wind down for the end of the day. My husband and I agree that it is one of the stupidest shows we have ever come across and is really not worth the effort to follow in the least. Rather disappointing that somehow this meaningless crap gets renewed for a second season while some of the best TV shows out there got canceled this year. "Cheap comedy" is what my husband classifies it as and it is beyond cheap - to the point where it's not worth even that little bit.

Glee

Glee (2009)

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Glee has very large varying degrees of quality from episode to episode. The only thing somewhat consistent that is usually enjoyable in this series is the music. Admittedly my favorite character is probably the overly flamboyant and openly gay Kurt as he appears to be the most in-depth and consistent character on the menu. The others are a definite love-hate relationship as they fluctuate all over the board and often come across as very shallow. Then again, this is high school we're talking about. Seriously recommend for the music, not for high character quality.

May 16, 2011

Immortals 3: Shadowland


My rating: 3 of 5 stars


As the series goes, not my favorite book but still a decent fast read. Ever isn't getting any breaks in this one. She still can't touch Damon. Only to top it off, Damon is now unsure not only if there's something going on with Ramon, but also if Jude is a past lover reincarnated that he's been keeping Ever away from constantly. I do like that Ever has so far stuck to her convictions as far as Damon being her only choice. Not so impressed with Ramon's little stunt at the end that forced Haven to turn into an immortal. That is going to cause a lot of upset for Ever down the road. Not to mention the whole playing with magic she doesn't really understand bit. They need the antidote fast before they run into something else they can't cure.

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May 15, 2011

The Vampire Diaries 00.3: Stefan's Diaries: The Craving


My rating: 2 of 5 stars


Nowhere near as good as the original series. A reminder, Stefan's Diaries follows the TV series, not the original book series. The whole Damon forcing a double wedding and actually going through with the wedding seemed a little over the top to me. Was glad to see Lexi come back into the picture. The Italian references nearly make me gag considering that's what they're supposed to be from the original books anyways. At least they're finally getting some clue about the dangers from Klaus though. We all know he causes enough trouble in the TV series as is, far more than his brief spotlight in the fourth book of the original series.

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Kate Daniels 1: Magic Bites


My rating: 2 of 5 stars


Read this on my father-in-law's recommendation. I was honestly surprised how fast I finished the book since it felt a little forced and like I was wading through it. Far more interesting at the end when Kate actually appears to have some options and relationships, even if they are somewhat skewed.

The vampires in this series are very awkward and become even more grotesque the older they get. Controlled by the "People" who I already dislike after the first book. The Pack are slightly more interesting as well as having more interaction with Kate, which lead me to like them more.

Overall it was okay but not anything overly staggering. The next book would have to improve a lot for me to really love the series. Mostly more curious as to who/what exactly Kate ends up being since they never did ID her unique bloodline.

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Lost

Lost (2004)

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


My husband loved the first few seasons of this show. So far, I'm just finding them confusing. It hops around from one group to the next, from the past to the present, glimpses of possible futures, and back again. The days get scattered and the point of views change as events are repeated yet again. Interesting in the idea that it is different from most shows out there. Doesn't make up from the confusion enough to make it a favorite though.

May 14, 2011

Southern Vampires 11: Dead Reckoning


My rating: 4 of 5 stars


While still a good read for the series, this book seemed to lack a lot of fundamental plot as it more bounced from event to event.

Started off liking the Sookie/Eric parts and ended up being highly disappointed in the pair. Really hoping Eric figures a way out of his betrothal in this case. I can understand why Sookie wouldn't want to keep the bond when she already has so much trouble from her telepathy, but in terms of their relationship and the amount of trouble she gets into, I'm unconvinced if it was really that good of an idea. Not to mentioned it seemed a little too easy to break.

Also not pleased with Alicide's little stunt or Sookie looking at Bill again. Those are two players I originally liked and can barely stand now. They've lost too many points through the series to want them around.

Was also disappointed by Amelia in this one. Curious to see what Sookie ends up doing with her big wish. Felt bad for Pam in this one too. Wish she could have had a better ending.

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May 12, 2011

Women of the Otherworld 2: Stolen


My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Still liked the first one better, but this was good as far as sequels go. Didn't spend too much time recapping the first book, but did enough that current events made sense. Just enough Elena/Clay to keep things interesting and lean a little more towards liking the pair. Kind of would like to see more with Paige and Savannah. Also disappointed there wasn't more with Jeremy. He was very much the steady rock in the background to keep things moving.

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The Ladykillers


My rating: 1 of 5 stars


Who ever thought a little old lady with an overprotective streak for her pet cat and an obsession with tea time would be the undoing of visitor's grand crime scheme. She yells at them for all the minor things while there are big issues going on right in front of her. A witless old lady apparently isn't as easy to off or fool then these crooks expected. Supposed to be a comedy, but really just fell flat. This group of crooks is more like a pack of buffoons waiting to be slapped around.

Kung Fu Hustle


My rating: 1 of 5 stars


Kung fu masters living in the slums try to take back the city from the mob. The "action" is over the top comedic to the point where it is beyond obviously fake and unbelievable. Butterfly transformations, toad fighting styles, legs chopping off at the knee without any blood or drama, battles won by air pressure, a  punch impressions that would kill by themselves if they weren't just "special features." This movie tops unbelievable and borders on just plain stupid. Not one I'd recommend if you want some good kung fu.

May 9, 2011

The Divide


My rating: 3 of 5 stars


This book was okay, but not one of my favorites from this author. It starts off about 3/4 of the way through the story, rewinds to the beginning, then skips what has already been told to reach the conclusion. While it makes the story start off with a bang, it would make more sense to just tell the story front to back instead of getting it all piecemeal. It is also slightly irritating how it keeps jumping perspectives so you get pieces from each person's point of view. Good in the sense that there are many characters who need more detailed info in the book, but bad in that it is yet one more way the story is chopped up. Decent for a one time read, but probably not one I'm likely to revisit.

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May 8, 2011

Nikita

Nikita (2010)

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Nikita was lucky enough to escape Division after the heartbreak of her fiance being killed. They take children without family from jail, erase their current identities and bring them up as undercover agents to work as spies and assassins. Nikita was their ultimate agent until she went rogue. Now she's their worst enemy as she works with a few select contacts to bring Division down.

May 7, 2011

Marvel Cinematic Universe 04: Thor 1


My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Another great Marvel adaptation. Was very glad to have the end bit which promised Thor's return in The Avengers. My husband didn't believe me when I said they'd bring him back for that even if he is temporarily trapped in Asgard. Loki shadowing the scientist was a surprise though. I suppose it shouldn't be given the myth behind his name. It was good to see how Thor finally grew up and learned to be worthy of the power he wielded rather than being a headstrong little boy. Looking forward to the Avengers line up more and more.

Kingdom of Heaven


My rating: 2.5 of 5 stars


In a nutshell: Middle Ages battle for the Holy Land. It was a little weird identifying the blacksmith as Orlando Bloom since I've been referencing him mostly with Pirates of the Caribbean, especially with the new film coming out in just a few weeks. I want the horses. Otherwise this struck me as mostly average and a repeat of a common storyline.

May 6, 2011

King Arthur


My rating: 3 of 5 stars


A good, unique re-telling of the age old story of King Arthur and his Knights. Especially liked that Gwen was an accomplished archer rather than just being the romantic figure between Arthur and Lancelot. Got a little goofy at the beginning with the Lancelot chant as my cat, also named Lancelot, was preening and begging for attention during it. As films go, this was a good watch that I'd probably be willing to turn to again down the road.

The Island

The Island (2005)

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


The island is a mysterious place they all hope to go to. What they don't realize is that going to the island actually means being harvested for their organs. They aren't "people," they are clones, created for the sole purpose of providing an "insurance policy" for the rich in the real world to try and cheat death. So what happens when two clones make it outside and learn the truth? It all comes crashing down. I was surprised to recognize this film as it got going given I did not recall the title. Still was an enjoyable watch, even if it was an unexpected second run.

May 5, 2011

Inside Man

Inside Man (2006)

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


What would you do if you'd planned the perfect crime? What is the perfect crime? How about one that appears to have never existed once it's over? The weapons are fake, the hostages are dressed like the convicts, no one can identify anyone else, the bad guys can hear every move and decision you've made on the other side of the wall, and you have no way of identifying them once they are all out in the open. Talk about confusion! So what's the point behind it anyways? It's an interesting twist that keeps you wondering what happens next.

May 4, 2011

High Fidelity


My rating: 1 of 5 stars


Based on the novel of the same name by Nick Hornby, this film follows the mid-life crisis of Rob, a thirty-something record-store owner who must face the undeniable facts - he's growing up. In a homage to the music scene, Rob and the offbeat clerks that inhabit his store expound on the intricacies of life and song all the while trying to succeed in their adult relationships. Odd commentary and "self realizations" throughout the film make it seem very choppy and awkward.

May 3, 2011

The Ice Harvest


My rating: 2 of 5 stars


The main character is rather clueless here. His best friend is a drunk fool, his ex-wife and kids hate him, his shady business partners to try kill him after attempting to kill each other, and he learns his mistress has been in on the whole thing. This guy is in the wrong places at all the wrong times. It's amazing that he survives at all. More on the stupid side than thrilling, not somethings that's likely for a come-back.

House of Wax


My rating: 1 of 5 stars


Most places titled a house of wax exhibit wax figures of movie scenes or well known people. This one appears to be very well done and entertaining. Up until these unsuspecting visitors learn its horrifying truth - the statues are made from real people. It turns from a camping trip gone wrong to a flight for survival from the brother serial killer artists. As with most horror films, the torture is frightening, the suspense is nerve wracking, and not everyone will come out alive.

May 2, 2011

Hostel

Hostel (2005)

My rating: 1 of 5 stars


Two students backpacking through Europe can't resist the ideal of sex and drugs presented to them. Of course things aren't as they appear to be. The girls do want their bodies... to sell in the flesh market of an underground hunting group catering to those who'd like to torture and kill their own choice of meat. Gruesome and horrifying, the victim becomes the killer as he unexpectedly tracks and maims individuals involved in the grisly slaughter. It seems everyone in this backwards little town is in on the take and it takes a ugly miracle for one determined, now mentally warped, teen to escape. This is totally going on the nightmares list. Give me something fun and lighthearted now please. I need to bleach my brain of these images.

May 1, 2011

Water for Elephants


My rating: 2 of 5 stars


Jacob has a talent when it comes to treating animals. As undergrad in veterinary medicine, it's no wonder he finds himself acting as the circus' own private vet when he's out of home and work. How could he expect his world would go from existing outside the depression to losing everything after his parents were killed in a car crash? Even more unexpected is falling for his boss' wife and star performer. So how do you survive a failing circus, it's mad director, and a heard of animals on the loose? Let the elephant save you and go to work as a vet for another circus. Sadly, I liked this film more for the animal performances than for anything with the main characters. Rather disappointing after all the hype leading up to its release.

The Fast & the Furious 3: Tokyo Drift


My rating: 2 of 5 stars


Unlike the other films, focusing on cars and crime, this one is about a troubled high school student who is sent to live with his father and Tokyo and learns how to drift for the first time. After thinking straight racing in the U.S. made him all that, he's got a whole new game to learn. Vin Diesel makes is first and only appearance at the end of the film for the kid's last challenge before the movie ends. Just a bunch of kids playing with cars and pretending they're as big or cool as they're mobster parents.

The Fast & the Furious 4: Fast & Furious


My rating: 3 of 5 stars


I have totally been watching these out of order, which doesn't help entirely with what little might carry over from a previous film. This one did explain a bit more about Dom's "time served." Once again, Vin Diesel plays the bad boy with an attitude. Teaming up with cop Brian O'Conner to bring down the bad guys and avenge his girl's untimely death. Once again, more about death and drug crimes than cars, this film stays true to the original movie only in the fact that it results to pimped out cars and a high speed chase before the end of the race and shares the same title.

The Fast & the Furious 2: 2 Fast 2 Furious


My rating: 3 of 5 stars


More about undercover sting operations than cars or racing, this film is still entertaining in a different sense than it's predecessor. The final race scene is both interesting and inventive as they employ new methods to confuse the cops and literally eject the bad guys from their passenger seats. Seat belts may not save you when it comes to this wild ride.