xXx (2002)

The review’s verdict is unavailable because the article text is hidden behind a paywall. No specific praise or complaint is visible in the accessible metadata.

The URL identifies this as a New York Times film review, but the page returned only an access-denied message. The critic’s verdict and specific praise or complaint are unavailable.

Ebert gives the film a mixed verdict, finding its action spectacle more effective than its story. He singles out Vin Diesel’s screen presence as a strength.

The critic calls the film pretense-free, eager-to-please expertly made trash. He praises the screenplay’s crass humor and playful attention to Hollywood’s portrayals of foreign cultures.

The review presents the film as a vehicle for cementing Vin Diesel’s macho-star status. It singles out the abundance of James Bond parallels, from Samuel L Jackson’s M-like character to the Blofeld-style villain.

The critic finds the film brash and entertaining, though neither as cool nor as funny as it aims to be. They praise its knowingly ludicrous, explosive action and single out Asia Argento as great value.

Smith finds the film sporadically entertaining but ultimately hampered by its choppy screenplay and clumsy filmmaking. He praises Vin Diesel’s physical presence and highlights the well-orchestrated action sequences.

French finds the film a stale, blunt Bond imitation, weighed down by a thin story and clumsy patriotism. He singles out the spectacular bridge-and-parachute stunt sequence as a standout.

Koehler sees the film as a calculating commercial attraction rather than a substantial movie, though he finds Diesel’s charisma and physicality entertaining. He particularly praises the spectacular downhill action sequence and the Prague locations, while faulting the hyperkinetic editing and other production choices.

Turan finds the film more frantic than entertaining and says it takes itself too seriously. He faults its lack of zest and good-humored energy, especially compared with the charisma of The Rock in The Scorpion King.

The available description suggests a dismissive verdict on the film. It singles out its action-movie clichés, including attitude, muscles and evil Russians, for mockery.

The critic pans the film as vulgar, puerile and burdened by Vin Diesel’s performance. The stunts are visually exciting, but they cannot compensate for the screenplay and scenery-chewing acting.