Speed Racer

Rating: 1.5 stars

When I saw The Matrix for the first time, I was tempted to give it a one word review: “Cool.” With its fresh use of CGI martial arts effects, dense mythology, and, of course, those billowing leather coats, the movie was cool—and the Wachowski Brothers seemed like a major force to be reckoned with. Well, since then, there were two sequels to The Matrix and neither was particularly good—in fact, they so muddled and over-wrought, they actually made me rethink my enjoyment of the original. Never a good sign.
And then . . . bupkis.
It’s been five years since The Matrix: Revolutions and, except for writing V for Vendetta, a kitschy piece of pseudo-agit-prop, they brothers have been silent. Then I saw the trailer for the Wachowski’s new film, Speed Racer, and my first thought was, “Cool.” By creating a kaleidoscopic, lightening fast, live-action version of the beloved Japanese animé series, it seemed like the boys were ready to make another statement. Oh,  how I wish it were true.
Yup, from the very first frame the film is all those things I mentioned—colorful, fast, undeniably original—but it’s also convoluted, over-directed, and, frankly, dull. My movie companion nodded off halfway through the film and I found myself envying him his catnap.

For the rest of this review, check out the June issue of Baltimore.