These days, we have little idea as to what the government is using in order to get past security systems and international borders. Because of this, the plot that surrounds Disney's newest thrill ride, G-Force, isn't too far of a stretch. Okay, maybe it is. But you have to admit, the idea that Guinea pigs can talk, operate and complete top-secret missions is neither clever nor original; yet somehow, it is still kinda cool. Throw in a guy like Zack Galifianakis leading the charge and you have yourself one hell of an adventure.
The rodents, voiced by the likes of Sam Rockwell, Nicolas Cage, Penelope Cruz and others, are given some incredibly witty dialogue by the film's impressive team of writers. From a reference to Paris Hilton's dog to a trio of always-agreeing mice, there is a good laugh mixed in there for everyone. However, where films like Shrek excel, G-Force fails as it never ventures far enough into the pop-culture realm of joke-telling to become universally appealing to all types of viewers.
Zack Galifianakis leads a team of lesser known live-action stars as Ben, the intellectual trainer who is attempting to help the four legged creatures earn their special agent badges. First noticed in The Hangover, this summer's biggest surprise hit, Galifianakis proves that he can do a lot with a mediocre script, prompting laughs during nearly every one of his scenes.
When the division is denied its grant for financing and the head of the CIA fears that the rodents are a threat to the government's intelligence, Darwin, Blaster, Juarez and Speckles find themselves trapped within the four walls of a cage at a local pet store. Now, in a race against the clock, each must find a way out of the cage and eventually to Ben's house. If they don't, then Saber (the film's villain) will take over the world and send it into a state of self-destruction.
It is here, about twenty minutes into the feature, that the fun truly begins to start happening as each critter takes a different route to self-freedom, bearing a different style of storm to reach their final destination. Whether it be pink lipstick and a dress, or a group of dogs laying in the grass, there is no easy path from the pet store to Ben's lair. Thankfully, the Guinea pigs are quick on their toes, discovering a way to bypass their obstacles and reach home base safely.
Through this part of the film, we get to see the wit and creative side take center stage. A loose tire, a motor car and piece of thick string all prove to be a worthy accessory to Darwin, Juarez and Blaster. Unfortunately, Speckles voyage is a bit dampened, bringing an unfortunate down moment to the picture. But as soon as it is taken care of, the fun picks back up as each trick prompts laughs from the younger members of the audience, sending them on a fun filled adventure unlike any other.
As the film's story begins to unwind and show itself in all its glory, it is hard to not be disappointed by the boring and mundane twist. I mean, sure, the six year old sitting next to me thought it was best thing since sliced break. However, for those who understand what is going on and exactly how a real film is pieced together, it is a major let down compared to everything that preceeds it. The action is exciting and the special effects (and fireworks) are definitely a sight to see, but that is what we expect from a guy like Jerry Bruckheimer. While the story does possess some jokes and wit early on, it loses its luster as it proceeds, making G-Force a great adventure for the little ones, but not so much for those who can understand and comprehend exactly what is going on. In short: see it, just don't expect too much in the form of content.
*This film is playing in 3-D at select theaters.
