The New American Hero

Even for those who have never been the biggest comic book fans, played with action figures or watched morning cartoons, “G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra” fits the bill as one of the best films this summer.

From start to finish, viewers are pulled into the vivid storyline, which provides nonstop action and a constant flow of adrenaline.

Directed by Stephen Sommers, “G.I. Joe” has brought new life to the once-popular action figure and cartoon franchise with frenetic and at times, patriotic scenes. Staying true to its roots, the film begins with a blast from the past before jumping into the future. During that time it foreshadows the role of each character and their relationship to the plot.

General Hawk, played by Dennis Quaid, does an excellent job at leading his secret military unit, which has the awesome task of reclaiming one of the most powerful weapons ever created.

Marlon Wayans (Ripcord) makes his return to the big screen as a U.S. soldier turned secret operative. In this film, Wayans has an opportunity to prove himself as a more serious actor on the big screen and does so in a move that just may save his career. As Ripcord, Wayans is an ambitious and intellectual soldier whose drive is the catalyst for his life-saving efforts. It looks like Wayans has given up fake horror flicks and womens clothing for guns and military fatigues.

Channing Tatum (Duke) adds purpose and charisma to the plot as the tough guy determined to win back his girl and complete his mission. Joseph Gordon-Levitt (Rex and The Doctor) plays a modern day Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde; A young American soldier turned maniacal scientist after an early explosion kills him—or so they thought.
This futuristic movie gives audiences a sneak preview of our world decades later, completely engaging in the discovery of new military tactics to establish order and control in a chaotic world.

“G.I. Joe” is full of surprises and quite entertaining, because it doesn’t fit into the typical stereotypes found in action flicks. While the destruction of the Eiffel Tower in France was a bit sad to watch, the screenwriters must have figured that New York City could use a break as the typical backdrop for an Armageddon scene. There is just enough suspense to keep viewers guessing from beginning to end as the battle shifts from the ground, to the air and finally underwater.

It may be too early to tell if “G.I. Joe: The Rise of the Cobra” will sink or swim in the shark infested waters of the action film genre, but there’s enough here for it to do more than just tread water, as it guarantees increased blood circulation, an accelerated heart rate and overall satisfaction.