by Ken San Nicolas

Director: Joe Carnahan

Time: 2 hours

Genre: Action

Starring: Liam Neeson, Bradley Cooper, Sharlto Copley, Quinton Jackson, Jessica Biel

In the mid 80's, the action series "The A-Team" dominated TV ratings with its over-the-top combat sequences, overflowing machismo, and catchy theme song. Director Joe Carnahan was tapped with the ambitious task of bringing the charisma of the series to the big screen and he definitely succeeded.

"The A-Team" version 2.0 consists of Hannibal (Liam Neeson), Face (Bradley Cooper), B.A. Baracus (Quinton Jackson) and H.M. Murdock (Sharlto Copley). It's been 8 years since the A-Team has been in operation and the team is living the high life. That is until, they are framed for a crime they did not commit and dishonorably discharged from the military. However, Smith and his band of soldiers can't be contained that easily and what ensues is 2 hours worth of explosions, laughs, and improbable action.

If you are looking for an enjoyable movie experience, I suggest catching "The A-Team" at Tango Theatres sometime this week. The movie keeps the action coming and Hannibal's plans are incredibly amusing and over-the-top. The plot isn't too deep but for an action film, it doesn't need to be. Carnahan is perfectly aware of this and he utilizes the charisma of his cast to undermine this weakness.

The acting by the primary four in this film is a strong complement to the action sequences. Each of the four are very convincing in their roles - as if they were born to play those parts: Liam Neeson delivers the classic Hannibal line with supreme confidence; Bradley Cooper's looks and pretentious demeanor are a perfect fit for the character of "Face", and MMA superstar Quinton Jackson puts up a valiant effort in his emulation of Mr. T's classic role as B.A. Baracus. But the performance award must go to Sharlto Copley as Madman Murdock. The breakout star of "District 9" is excellent in his sophomore acting effort. Copley delivers each line with such zany confidence that it will have you laughing all movie long.

Joe Carnahan has done numerous things right with "The A-Team". He has accurately recreated the cast, and he has ket all the properties that made the original series such a hit. And while the plot of the film is lacking in substance, the other things the film has to offer greatly outweigh its shortfalls. Catch it tonight at the Tango Theatres in either the Micronesia Mall or the Agana Shopping Center - you will be entertained.

4.5 out of 5 stars.