This Weekend’s Pick: The Kingdom

Posted by Movie_Maven

September 26, 2007 |

WHY: It’s directed by Peter Berg, an understated, under-credentialed director (he DID make 1998’s very bad, Very Bad Things after all). The topic itself may make or break it, depending on the currently “terror-weary” the populace is.

WHAT ELSE MAY BREAK THIS: Jamie Foxx. Can we be sold another Jamie Foxx cop/FBI character again, in such short order? ~~At least Michael Mann isn’t calling the shots here.~~ Wait…… Michael Mann is producing. From laconic waywardness to campy hysteria, Foxx’s shambled take on Tubbs in 2006’s Miami Vice is directly attributable to Mann. (Mann did shine through terrifically in both Collateral and Ali).

WHAT MAY MAKE THE MOVIE: Jason “My-Sister’s-Justine” Bateman. There’s been a Jason Bateman sighting. Word is that his comedic relief is a balance for Foxx’s over-the-toppy persona.

CURIOSITY FACTOR: Most of the previews I’ve seen in the last few weeks (excluding this week) have portrayed Jennifer Garner in the following: first, appearing in one preview in many shots saying nothing and looking beautifully pouty and uber concerned, with requisite, pursed, collagenous lips; second, in a different preview, saying only “Evidence goes cold” and, to a third trailer, where she finally gets to say something more substantial. This can be some good action for Garner, a la her Alias days. Will The Kingdom use Garner’s presence to fashion some political diatribe (in the form of an ironic vixen in an abayah), touting a bit on Middle Eastern oppression of women? Or will it be handled with a delicate respect or with no attention at all? And will Garner and Foxx hook up in the flick? I kind of hope not- it would just be too convenient.