Also New:
SIGNS
It grossed $228 million, yet I can't think
of another 2002 release that left so many viewers
dissatisfied. Mel Gibson is rock-solid as a former
reverend who suspects an alien invasion is imminent,
but the effective air of ambiguity established in the first
hour gives way to a thuddingly obvious second half
(think Independence Day without a budget).
1/2
UNDERCOVER BROTHER
Beating the
Austin Powers films at their own game, this
blaxploitation spoof (and, surprisingly, a favorite more
with critics than audiences) downplays the raunch in
favor of gags that rely on the strength of their own
cleverness as opposed to the extent of their
outrageousness. Granted, this hit-and-miss mode
results in a lot of groaners, but the big laughs are
tumultuous enough to barrel right over the slow
patches.