REVIEWS
American Dreamz
MOVIE
Satire, when done well, can inspire. And satire of a political nature can instigate change. But political satire with no cleverness or hint of originality can cause a desire to bang one's head against a hard surface, and that is what it feels like to watch American Dreamz.
A self-confessed and unashamed Mandy Moore fan, I am concerned if this is the type of film she will be gravitating toward in the future. But Moore, as a wannabe star participating on an American Idol-like show, is only part of the problem. She is aided by Hugh Grant, who usually has enough charm to make even films like Two Weeks Notice watch-able, but, in American Dreamz, tries to emulate Simon Cowell, a daunting task in itself. Mostly, Grant just annoys everyone, which Simon does, but with a little more polite. I just wanted him off the screen as soon as possible and I normally would never wish that of
Grant. Then there's Dennis Quaid, doing his best George Bush impression, which is possibly the worst George Bush impression ever caught on film/video, complete with southern drawl and idiotic meanderings.
plotting to smuggle a bomb into the final show to kill the president.
The plot, as contrived as this may seem, is concerned with the President who, in order to win popular appeal, appears as a guest judge on the uber-popular show, American Dreamz, hosted by Grant. Moore is a Southern belle willing to do anything to win. Meanwhile Omar (Sam Golizari), has been chosen as a token Arab contestant but he is secretly
The sheer amount of stupidity astounds. I was hoping that they were making the characters deliberately ridiculous in order to make a point but no point ever came. If this is a correct reflection of the American people, a collective shudder should resound from coast to coast.
South Wind 12
Rated: PG-13, 115 minutes
Lindsey Ramsey
★
GAME
24: THE GAME
I hope that a person like Jack Bauer exists in the world, because I feel a lot safer knowing that he is out there fighting terrorism.
If you watch 24, then you already know the main premise of the game. It's up to you, as Jack Bauer and Co., to stop a terrorist plot in 24 hours. The game stresses this the same way the show does, by making every mission a race against the clock. This gives a sense of urgency to the player, saying: you must do this or the terrorists will win.
This game isn't about going into the field and shooting everything that walks. It incorporates many aspects of the TV show. The player has to defuse bombs, break into secure places, sneak around and, yes... shoot people. The game uses other aspects of Counter Terrorism Unit practices in the form of mini-games. This is another
innovation to encompass all the aspects of the series. The mini-games are mostly of the press-the-correct button-at-the-right-time variety.
A downside of the game is its use of split screens. Sure, it's a neat part of the show, but it's not necessary, especially during the middle of gameplay. The quick switch of camera angels and new shots of the area are annoying.
Also, the driving aspect of the game is terrible. Most of the driving has to do with getting away from enemies. However, the big problem is an inability to successfully get away. You're better off just trying to kill them and get to your destination in time.
The voice acting is a definite plus for the game. The actors from the series lend their voices for their digital selves.I don't think I could fully respect a Jack
Bauer character if I didn't hear Kleifer Sutherland say: "Damn it!' a few times.
24: The Game makes it possible for players to experience Jack Bauer's job. The game doesn't leave out any aspect of the show.
System: PlayStation 2
★★★
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16> JAYPLAY 04.27.2006