Plot: What’s it about?
Gregorio Cortez (Antonio Banderas) and his wife Ingrid (Carla Gugino) used to be two of the best spies in the world, but now they’ve settle down. Once on opposite sides of the coin, now the two are married and even have two kids, Carmen and Juni. The bickering brother and sister have no idea about the past of their parents, but will soon discover the truth, after a most unusual series of events. It seems some of the world’s top agents have vanished and as such, Gregorio and Ingrid are called back into action, but soon enough, they end up captured by a madman from a children’s television show, Fegan Floop (Alan Cumming). Floop seeks to use the brains of the best spies to power his army of robot soldiers, which happen to look like kids. But Gregorio and Ingrid have a chance to escape, if their own children can carry on the family legacy and run a complex spy mission to free them. Carmen (Alexa Vega) and Juni (Daryl Sabara) might not have experience, but they are determined to recover their parents, no matter what it takes.
This family aimed film from director Robert Rodriguez was a surprise success, taking in over one hundred million bucks and winning a substantial audience. Although this seems like a kids’ movie, a lot of parents were impressed also and as such, word of mouth hit the streets fast on Spy Kids. I found it to be a brisk, safe adventure flick, with much better production values than most family films and in addition, it was a lot of fun to watch. The action scenes are well made and Rodriguez’ usual touch is present, which means it all pans out quite well. Some of the computer effects stand out as poorly done, but on the whole, I felt the stunts and special effects were more than solid, given the nature of the picture. In other words, I really enjoyed the movie. Going back again for this review, I wasn’t as taken with it as I was before, but it still holds up. If you want family fun with a little kick than usual, Spy Kids is well worth a look and should entertain the entire family.
Although he is best known for his more violent films, director Robert Rodriguez takes a more family friendly tone here, with terrific results. I think the main reason Spy Kids works so well is that Rodriguez knows action, whether with blazing guns or insane gadgets. So his usual trademarks and touches are all seen here, but in a different form and in truth, I think it all works out very well, as the action sequences here are very impressive. It had to be harder to work with child leads, but it still looks pretty good, even though some obvious tricks were used from time to time, to enhance the visual impact of the stunts. Other films directed by Rodriguez include From Dusk ‘Til Dawn, Roadracers, El Mariachi, The Faculty, and Desperado. The cast here includes Antonio Banderas (The Mask of Zorro, Four Rooms), Alan Cumming (Spice World, Josie and The Pussycats), and Carla Gugino (Snake Eyes, Son in Law).
Video: How does it look?
Spy Kids is presented in 1.85:1 widescreen. The movie looks great here, with much improved depth and detail, as well as even more vibrant colors. I know that is hard to believe, given how vivid the colors were on DVD, but they’re even richer here and provide a nice visual presence. I found detail to be enhanced, but not quite up to the level of the best of this format. Even so, you will want to replace your DVD to be sure, as this is superior in all aspects.
Audio: How does it sound?
This DTS HD 5.1 soundtrack is awesome, a power packed experience that never lets off the gas. The surrounds are active and let loose often, especially in the action oriented sequences. The booming bass, the directional presence, and just overall crisp and potent presence is remarkable. The dialogue is never lost in all this however, so all vocals are safe and sound. This is just a great soundtrack that is a blast to experience, terrific work on this one. This release also includes a Spanish language track, as well as English and Spanish subtitles.
Supplements: What are the extras?
In addition a digital copy of the film for portable devices, you’ll also find a handful of promotional featurettes and the film’s theatrical trailer.
