The Rock (1996)

The Rock does have a plot.  Y'see, there's this general who thinks his men have been treated badly, so he takes over Alcatraz and holds San Francisco hostage with chemical weapons.  The only hope we have is a guy who's been in prison for decades and some geek who...

Oh forget it.  The plot is absurd.  But who cares?  This isn't a fine drama or a believable character study.  This movie exists for one purpose: loud, high-speed action and explosions.  The Rock thus is the penultimate '90's action film.

It was directed by Michael Bay.  This would usually be a loud, obnoxious point against the film.  However, this is one of the two or three films that Bay's done that actually works.  It works for several reasons: it doesn't take itself too seriously, the actors are of fine quality (excepting Nicholas Cage), and the screenplay is phenomenal.  The script is full of wit and humor, with one-liners and zingers that help keep the movie feeling light and fun, while at the same time keeping it out of the realm of camp.  (for example, when told there is a "situation" that Mason -Sean Connery's character -might help with, he replies, "And what might that be?  I've been in jail longer than Nelson Mandela, so maybe you want me to run for President.")  I must warn you though; this movie has quite a bit of the "colorful" language.

Sean Connery carries the film, basically reprising his role as James Bond (a much older, much more foul-mouthed Bond).  Nicholas Cage is his usual, "shouldn't be working as an actor" self, but he does seem to be having fun.  And Ed Harris is a great conflicted bad guy/good guy, trying desperately to achieve his good ends through bad means without losing control of the situation.

But of course the real star is the action.  And there is lots of it.  There's the unforgettable Hummer vs Ferrari chase through the streets of San Francisco, and the many shootouts and explosions on Alcatraz itself.  It's all done well, and makes for a very exciting, very fun flick.

So ignore the plot holes.  Ignore Nicholas Cage.  Disregard the cheesy moments or the over-the-top and unbelievable elements.  Just enjoy The Rock.

Entertainment: 9/10
Artistic Value: 2/10
Technical Merit: 6/10

Overall: 6/10

P.S. Content warning: lots of death, mayhem, and violence.  Grizzly deaths abound, and strong language ensues.