The USA government needs an undercover agent to help thwart a secret organization's attempt to start World War III. For this task they recruit Xander Cage, a career criminal who is one of the few who the government believes has the skills to fulfill the difficult task. For his efforts, Cage will get the chance at being a free man once again after years under lockdown. Cage has to use his skill at extreme stunts and gadgets to succeed in this action film starring Vin Diesel and directed by Rob Cohen who reteam after working together on The Fast and the Furious.
XXX is a blast to behold. The film is basically a new generation version of the James Bond films. The film features some amazing set pieces and stunts that will blow your mind. Think of the stunt that opens every Bond film and triple that and you get an idea of what this film delivers on that front. Needless to say, this film is filled to the brim with nonstop action. The Fast and the Furious can't even hold a candle to the amount of action found in XXX. The film needs and contains some great special effects to make the various stunts and action sequences somewhat believable even though it is still hard to imagine many of this film's stunts being attempted in the real world unless someone has a death wish. Vin Diesel has the screen gravity to hold your attention throughout the various dangerous exploits of his character. He is the one actor that can make the viewer believe he could do what his character does on screen. The film also smartly includes some bits of humor to mimic the Bond franchise on another front. Also, the film moves at a very brisk pace and doesn't leave the viewer much time to ponder the occurrences on screen. And of course, there's the requisite girl that Xander meets and then beds quickly afterwards.
Unfortunately, not everything is rosy in XXX. The direction by Rob Cohen is over the top and lacks anything resembling subtlety so if you want that you'd be better off seeing another film. The film also contains a plot that is very exotic so to speak and even in this post 9/11 world, is still quite unbelievable.
Overall, XXX is a very enjoyable action film with a lead with ample screen presence and some awesome stunts and action sequences that combine to make for a great time at the multiplex.
Rating: 86
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