Brendan Fraser, Rachel Weisz and Arnold Vosloo return in 2001 to host another blockbusting special effects spectacular that, perhaps, should have been left in its tomb, somewhere.

Universal Studios' "The Mummy Returns" continues the story of "The Mummy," as Rick O'Connell (Fraser), his Egyptologist librarian now-wife Evelyn (Weisz), and their son (Freddie Boath) recruit a rag-tag group of misfits to fight the reborn mummy of evil priest Imhotep and his reincarnated girlfriend.

As the signal phrase "rag-tag group of misfits" should indicate, this movie isn't exactly poetry on film.

From the quirky aviator who always gets shot in the butt when working with Fraser's character, to the pretentious comic relief loser uncle, to the mysterious goateed member of an underground brotherhood that fights evil every three-thousand years or so, this flick has every cliche from every adventure ever conceived, except for the giant rolling ball from Indiana Jones. That one must still be on the cutting room floor. But in true turn of the century style "The Mummy Returns" is well aware of its ancestors, and tries halfheartedly to point out that each of its plot-turns is "how it always happens."

Despite the glaring lack of originality, "The Mummy Returns" manages to pull off a decent viewing experience, provided the audience is willing to suspend disbelief and ride it like one would a rollercoaster; all twists, turns, loops, and mindless speed. After fight scenes in exotic locations and battles against the undead in the desert, and Brendan Fraser running and running and running, one is left knowing that it would be unreasonable to be unsatisfied.

The special effects the new Mummy films are famous for are reproduced here, the same as always. Most effects are obviously computer generated, and a few couldn't look phonier if they'd left the backdrop blue. The worst of these are the Scorpion King's insect creature (which I suppose is played by wrestler, The Rock, but more credit is due to the graphic artists who modeled his face and put it on a bug), and the ridiculous blimp the group ride through the air (somehow, the dirigible is rocket powered and handles like a fighter plane).

But more glaring is the utter lack of blood on screen despite immense battle scenes where the combatants all sport spears, swords, and battle axes. How The Rock manages to kill twenty soldiers without spilling a drop is even more amazing than the popularity of the World Wrestling Federation that spawned him. It's ironic that the WWF has a more realistic depiction of the consequences of violence than a major motion picture.

All in all, "The Mummy Returns" is decent matinee material. Expect nothing but a cross between Indy and Bond, with less cleavage and brains, but more eye-candy, and you'll come out winning.


Recommended:
Yes