Hancock

*** - Will Smyth plays a Superman-type figure who drinks heavily and causes as much damage as possible while carrying out his rescue missions in this action-comedy that also features Jason Bateman and Charlize Theron. This film starts out very promisingly, with lots of humor and an interesting idea. However, as the movie progresses the humor seems to dissipate and the interesting idea morphs into a largely illogical and rather banal attempt to tie together plot strands that seemed like they might be neat at first. Even with the fairly weak storyline and dull (occasionally difficult to sit through) second half, this is still a good film that contains some high quality aspects and leaves open the possibility of a franchise that could have some lasting value. The ‘Fresh Prince’ is as good in this movie as he has been in any other movie he has been in, and I chalk that up to the fact that he’s not trying to go overboard with the comedy and charisma that most people seem to like so much, and are displayed in the vast majority of other successful films he’s been in. Bateman is always good for a few laughs, and his straight man routine in this is about as good as they get. It’s a quality film worth watching, but a little disappointing after such a strong start.