The A-Team – Starring: Liam Neeson, Bradley Cooper, Sharlto Copley, Quinton ‘Rampage’ Jackson
In adapting The A-Team, director Joe Carnahan had the tough task of satisfying those who grew up with the TV show while also winning over a new generation of action movie fans.
All in all, he does a laudable job, capturing the raucous spirit of the series while delivering enough thrilling set pieces to keep adrenalin junkies hooked.
The plot, what there is of it, is ridiculous. A military unit made up of Hannibal (Neeson), Face (Cooper), BA (Jackson) and Murdock (Copley) are double-crossed in Iraq after stealing some treasury plates and sent to prison.
After busting out they track down those responsible while trying to stay clear of sexy agent Sosa (Jessica Biel).
It was always going to be difficult for the new A-Team to step into the boots of the original cast and the actors have mixed success. While physically imposing, Jackson lacks the magnetism of Mr T while Neeson’s Hannibal is a tad dull. It’s left up to Cooper and South African Copley to liven things up with humour and charm, glossing over the silly storyline in the process.
Getting this team together for a second outing might not be a bad plan.
GOOD FOR: Those brought up in the 1980s.
3/5
Review: Pierre de villiers
