The Italian Job Review
by Homer Yen (homer_yen AT yahoo DOT com)June 5th, 2003
A "Job" Well Done
by Homer Yen
(c) 2003
Without knowing that "The Italian Job" was a title of a movie, it may sound more like a deluxe sandwich that you might order at your local gourmet Italian deli. Piled high with fresh and zesty ingredients, you'll find it hard to put down until you've finished every bite. So too is the slick caper film, "The Italian Job." It feels fresh and has lots of zest. And, you'll find it to be a watchable experience from beginning to end.
This movie keeps us interested through two means. One is the beautiful visuals. The initial job takes place in Venice where a professional crew of thieves is about to make a daring theft. Once their objective as been achieved, they meet in the snowy Alps to consummate their deal. Its pristine splendor is enough to influence us to book a ticket overseas. However, betrayal and murder arises, which then propels us into the second part of the film as vengeance is sought. And while the setting moves to Los Angeles, which is hardly as scenic, there is charm in other areas. There is a colorful array of criminal elements, the palatial homes are impressive, and the inclusion of a sexy safecracker always adds a dimension of welcome beauty (although it could just be that the film would not look politically correct without a women in a lead role).
What is more fun to watch (as well as necessary) in a caper film is how the jobs are executed. It requires incredible planning and precision, as well hi-tech equipment usually reserved for CIA agents. There are a couple of neat scenes where a kind of x-ray camera is used to map out the interior of the target structure. This is very handy if, for example, you want to blow up the floor beneath the safe and need to plot exact dimensions.
Yet, no job can be accomplished without an able leader and a diversified complement. Cool-headed and methodical Charlie (Mark Wahlberg) creates the overall plans, contemplating every angle and contingency. Steve (Edward Norton) is a cocky and self-serving character who is equally motivated although not as creative. Lyle (Seth Green) is a computer whiz who funnily insists that he originally created Napster. Handsome Rob (Jason Statham) has an ability to woo women and drive really fast. Left-Ear (Mos Def) is an explosives expert that is very good at creating large potholes in the street. And since treasures can not be obtained if safes can not be opened, the services of safecracking Stella (Charlize Theron) and John (Donald Sutherland) are needed.
One interesting item to note is that these thieves don't even use guns. That's good, because too many bullets would distract us from their crafty approach. They rely on quick thinking, their ability to recruit other skilled professionals in a moment's notice, and a trio of modified Mini Coopers to transport the goods. This is a great piece of product placement because to see what these cars can do will leave you with a desire to test-drive one at your earliest opportunity. They look great for driving through narrow spaces, for negotiating traffic, and for the needed quick escape. Yes, I'll take one with the racing stripes and the rally lamps. Watching the Mini's and the film is a heck of a lot of fun.
Grade: B
S: 0 out of 3
L: 1 out of 3
V: 1 out of 3
Originally posted in the rec.arts.movies.reviews newsgroup. Copyright belongs to original author unless otherwise stated. We take no responsibilities nor do we endorse the contents of this review.
