Those daring Angels are back sharing their sexy kung fun action with all to see. Once again the angels, Natalie (Cameron Diaz), Dylan (Drew Barrymore) and Alex (Lucy Liu), have found themselves in the middle of a grand adventure. This time around we are introduced to a former angel, Demi Moore. Who would have even thought that former angels still looked so hot?
The story begins when the angels save one of America's own from a rogue band of Chinese trading partners. Unfortunately for the angels, his very important ring is left behind, which when added with another recently stolen ring (FROM BRUCE WILLIS NO LESS), gives the bad guys access to the protected witnesses list.
New this time to help out the angels is the highlight and scene stealer of the film Bernie Mack as Boseley's brother. His role here is so good that it just about makes the film worth watching, though some may argue that point.
The angel's of course face more than just their own enemies as they face their own common problems, such as moving in with men, telling parents what they really do, and one of the angel's dark secret past.
I must admit that Full Throttle wasn't quite what I expected it to be. I found myself laughing at the rediculous moves that these girls were able to pull off while laughing even harder at the very talented Bernie Mac. Sometimes a light-hearted action film hits the spot but just as it's easily digested it is equally easily forgotton.
The Disc:
As one of Columbia's Special Edition's the disc is presented in a 2.40:1 anamorphic widescreen transfer. The film is very colorful and cheery, lending itself well to this nicely done transfer. Unlike Daddy Daycare, the angel's come in a separate full screen edition for those still stuck in the dark ages. Sounds on the film are equally impressive with plenty of action used to match the rediculous stunts the girls pull off.
Extras for the special edition are plentiful. It begins with not one but two Screen-specific audio commentaries. The first track offers up Director McG who has fun with the light pen on his Telestrator track. This new tool of DVD technology gives him the ability to make cute little shapes on the screen every once in a while to key us in on what he's talking about.
Second up is the Writer's Commentary Track Featuring John August, Cormac and Marianne Wibberley. This track is more light-hearted, like the film, with at least a sense of humor. While the laughter is being spewed there are plenty of interesting changes that were made to the film that they share with us.
Next we have four featurettes, "Turning Angels into Pussycat Dolls"; "Rolling with the Punches"; "XXX-Treme Angels" ; and "Full Throttle". These four featurettes total 35 minutes and all are presented in 4:3 full screen. Each takes a look at a certain sequence in the film, the girls becoming strippers, the lowdown on a big wharehouse fight, the motocross event and McG talking about the cars in the film. All are interesting in their own way.
Next up is a series of small time extras that constitute more of a promotiuonal nature than informative. It begins with Cameo-Graphy which gives us quick info on the dozen or so celebrity spots in the film plus a corresponding jump-to-the-scene feature.
Next is the Full Throttle Jukebox, which also allows you to jump to the most prominently featured songs in the film. Finally Columbia has included Pink's music video for "Feel Good Time," some filmographies and five theatrical trailers, including one spot for Full Throttle.
bottom line:
A really well designed disc for a really one time viewing kind of movie. Full Throttle is forgetable but admittedly fun while being viewed. Only recommended for true fans of the franchise.
3 out of 5
By - Brian Gray
