Forbidden Kingdom

Jackie Chan, Jet Li - say no more, we knew we had to see it. No matter that it is a kid's movie. It's along the line of The Karate Kid or The Wizard of Oz . Both movies came to mind numerous times throughout.

I would much rather watch Jackie Chan and Jet Li though. They fight and fight and fight some more, each playing multiple roles. The fight scenes are wonderful and reminiscent of the old martial arts movies. It sort of bridges a gap - old martial arts movies meet a new generation of American kids.

I had one problem through the movie and it was an itch I just couldn't scratch. The main character, a young teen white boy from Baltimore, is played by Michael Angarano. Yeah I know, who? I've seen him here and there - he played on ER for example, but what bothered me and wouldn't go away is how much this role wanted to be played by Shia LaBeouf. You know - the kid from Holes and I,Robot and Transformers. I guess he's just too busy or didn't want to learn martial arts or is too old now or who knows. Still, Michael is a Shia knockoff, no question.

This was just a great deal of fun. The funny parts were funny (Jackie Chan never disappoints with both the fighting and the quiet comedy) and the action was exciting, the story may have been a bit of a retread but you'll be so busy you won't even notice.

Pueblo Tinseltown was the place - the popcorn was okay. Plenty of white cheddar sprinkles and Dark Chocolate Raisinettes!

We give it a 4!