Hancock: Movie Review

Will Smith's newest blockbuster doesn't bust much except L.A. highways and buildings. Hancock is the story of a reluctant superhero who does more destruction than good in present day L.A. Like Superman, he is faster than a speeding bullet and can leap buildings in a single bound, but he is nowhere near as squeaky-clean as Clark Kent. Hancock is a drunkard. He is a social deviant. He is a disappointment to everyone. Even though he possesses superpowers, he does not possess the power to wield them responsibly.

The meat of the story happens when Hancock saves the life of PR man Ray Embrey (Jason Bateman). Unsuccessful in trying to change the world through corporate giving programs, Ray takes it upon himself to change Hancock's public image. Thus, in turn, he hopes to change the world. Bateman is at his comic best, and his performance steals the show. While Smith has his characteristic one-liners, Bateman's subtle humor is engaging. It causes the audience to relate to him and his family. He seems to genuinely care about Hancock - the man - rather than Hancock - the hero - making Embrey the movie's real hero.

Another big name in the film is Ray's wife Mary, played by Charlize Theron. While nothing like her performances in Monster or North Country, her acting and presence in the film seems to serve its purpose by mixing in a pretty face and slight sexual tension to the pot. The movie would have been more interesting had the sexual tension between Hancock and Mary been exposed sooner in the film. Unfortunately, we have to wait till the end before it's unveiled.

One major letdown of the film is the plot. The idea of a reluctant super hero is great, but the plot doesn't take full advantage of it. Using huge effects, the film tries to overpower you into seeing Hancock as a delinquent. You see him struggle with his powers and his life. All of this is great stuff for a reluctant super hero, but the wrap up of his problems is not realistic (well, as realistic as a sci-fi-ish movie can be). You're not compelled to believe it. You sit there thinking, "This is it?"

The movie had tons of big CGI effects, lots of destruction and coarse language. Overall, it was on par to some of Smith's other films. It felt like a cross between I,Robot and Bad Boys, but it wasn't half as good as either (even when I, Robot wasn't one of Smith's shining moments). If you're a Smith fan, then you'd probably enjoy this film. If you're a Smith hater, this one's not going to turn your opinion on its head. If you're neutral, I'd advise you to wait for the DVD. Don't waste the money to see it in the theaters.