Charlie’s Angels

In the days when speakerphones were cool and Farrah Fawcett's hair was fresh, Charlie's Angels ruled the prime-time kingdom. With Hollywood 's recent penchant for turning mediocre television shows into less than mediocre movies, Charlie's Angels is now larger than life on the big screen--or maybe I was just sitting too close.

The three new angels--Natalie (Cameron Diaz), Dylan (Drew Barrymore) and Alex (Lucy Liu)--working under the watchful eye of Bosley (Bill Murray), have just barely wrapped up their last effort when Charlie calls to inform them of their next job. Someone has kidnapped Eric Knox (Sam Rockwell), a computer firm founder who has developed software capable of identifying anyone by the sound of their voice. In the wrong hands, this technology could mean the end of privacy.

A little investigative work reveals the most likely suspect: Knox's rival Roger Corwin (Tim Curry). Working into Corwin's circle of friends, the Angels appear to have the case well in hand when fate turns against them, putting their lives and the mysterious Charlie, in danger.

Expecting to see another cinematic episode in a dynasty of terrible television takeoffs, this clever script mixes the present-day with a quirky seventies style and soundtrack, managing to walk the fine line between spoof and serious action /adventure. Instead of being the model material showcased in the '70's, these modern angels have individual personality flaws, making them more plausible and humorous.

Or perhaps I was just blinded by their womanly wiles, because the movie snatches every opportunity it can to show off the girls' breast side. Going undercover (just barely) as geishas, belly dancers, and racecar drivers (one even does a nude death-defying fall), these Angels redefine the phrase "busting open the case."

The amazingly choreographed martial arts moves and exciting stunts featured in this film may make a strong female empowerment statement. But even if the young women don't pack pistols, the action is still violent. Parents will likely find their sexually active lifestyles concerning too, making these angels more fit for a devilish dish than a heavenly host.