By Isaac Siegemund-Broka
Staff Writer
It can be difficult to revive an old idea, especially one that received little support in the first place. Following up on 2003’s widely criticized “Johnny English,” “Johnny English: Reborn” successfully turns the stereotypical spy thriller into an all-ages comedy film.
“Johnny English: Reborn” could not be considered particularly “good” from a cinematic standpoint, but in its attempt to be silly and entertaining, it succeeds. Though ridden with a fair amount of mindless drivel, the movie captures the refreshingly proportionate blend of goofiness, excitement and sincerity that is so often lost in failed attempts to be funny.
Rowan Atkinson plays Johnny English, a dimwitted member of M16 who left the service after failing to complete duties on a mission in Mozambique. After training among Tibetan warriors, English is thrown back into the spying world to stop “Vortex,” a league of international assassins before they cause global chaos.
As Johnny’s detective work develops, he delves further and further into the violent plans of “Vortex” and learns that events in Mozambique may not have been his fault after all.
Despite being incredibly predictable, the storyline is brisk and exciting. A wide assortment of exotic settings, amusing scenes and classic spy-thriller dialogue keeps “Johnny English Reborn” moving at a fast, enjoyable pace.
A large part of “Johnny English: Reborn” is constructed from pieces of other famous spy movies. Several comedic elements are reminiscent of similar gags in the “Austin Powers” trilogy and the final scene combines elements from multiple James Bond movies. These allusions helped to construct an entertaining plot while paying homage to classic action and comedy films.
For a movie composed almost entirely of pieces from other spy comedies, “Johnny English: Reborn” contains one bit of ingenuity that is enjoyable if not just for the spectacle: a wheelchair chase. Car chases are fundamental in any action movie and the light, amusing spin put on such a staple thrill fits the film’s tone well.
Suspension of disbelief is vital in any action movie, but “Johnny English: Reborn” pushed this suspension past its limit. Maybe this would not bother a younger viewer, but it becomes difficult not to question the plotline when an old woman turns a golf bag into a gatling gun or when Johnny drives from London to Switzerland without crossing any body of water.
Most of the humor in “Johnny English: Reborn” is unabashedly targeted at younger children. Nonetheless, many comedic moments can reach the audience as a whole, lacking the often-condescending silliness associated with children’s comedies.
Atkinson embodies his particular eccentric role very well. His combination of goofiness and genuine heart is not necessarily as impressive as the professionalism of some revered actors, but makes him truly enjoyable to watch.
“Johnny English: Reborn” could not be considered a comedy classic, nor could it be called a detective masterpiece; however, as a children’s action-comedy, it does not fail to deliver hearty laughs and amusing adventure.
“Johnny English: Reborn” proves to ge a great experience for parents and kids. Fans of action and comedy alike will find something here. The film is rated PG and is in theaters everywhere.
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