Denzel Washington is Letter Perfect in "The Book of Eli"

Based on the trailers alone, it is all too easy to judge "The Book of Eli," Denzel Washington's latest film, as just an updated version of "Mad Max" and other post-apocalyptic films. Washington's performance, however, combined with a well-written script make "Eli" a highly watchable film.

In "The Book of Eli," Denzel Washington is a drifter with a duty

Washington plays Eli, an enigmatic man who wanders through the aftermath of some undisclosed war. Ash falls from the sky like snow, and Eli survives by killing feral cats and seeking shelter in abandoned homes. Water also is a very precious commodity, and Eli gathers it whenever he can, bartering for it in other areas.

Eli has only the clothes on his back and a small packet of possessions, including a rechargeable battery, a 3^rd generation iPod and a supply of Wet-Naps from a famous fast food restaurant. In a world where water is for drinking, not cleaning, pre-moistened wipes like these are the only way that Eli can keep himself

clean while wandering.

A King James Edition of the Bible is the prize in "The Book of Eli"

Entering a small community, Eli simply wants to barter for a few items and get back to his walking, but Carnegie (Gary Oldman), the man who owns the town, wants Eli for his fighting skills and the King James Bible that he carries in his backpack. No matter what Carnegie does, however, Eli remains steadfast in his beliefs and his mission.

Washington and Mila Kunis are dead solid perfect in "Eli"

Surprising and highly enjoyable, "The Book of Eli" contains yet another well-crafted performance from Denzel Washington. Directed by Albert and Allen Hughes, who also created the contemporary drama "Dead Presidents," "Eli" is an amazing piece of filmmaking with plenty of surprises and excitement.

Washington's portrayal of Eli is carefully thought out and very intricate, right down to the music that he listens to on his ancient iPod. Eli never looks for trouble, preferring instead to continue his solitary travels, but roving bands of thieves always bring trouble to him.

As Solara, a young woman who is "owned" by Carnegie, Mila Kunis from "That 70's Show" gives an exceptionally strong performance. Forced to work in one of Carnegie's establishments, Solara sees something strong and proud about Eli, which she wants to emulate and follow. Unfortunately, Carnegie also keeps her mother hostage, which limits what Solara is able to do.

Gary Oldman also is quite good as Carnegie, the man who has his own purposes for the King James Bible. Unlike Eli, who sees the value that contained within the words, Carnegie only sees the Bible as another way of making a profit.

Washington, Kunis and Oldman work well together, making "The Book of Eli" one of the most intelligent action flicks to arrive in theaters in recent months.

"The Book of Eli," rated R for some brutal violence and language, currently is playing in theaters.