>The Scorpion King                                


Movie Review: The Scorpion King



"The Scorpion King" is a movie that does not take itself too seriously, and this is its strongest asset. Directed by Chuck Russell, it is a prequel to "The Mummy Returns," featuring the wrestler-turned-actor Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson in his first lead role. While the plot and dialogue are recycled from previous movies, the film embraces its goofiness, making it an entertaining watch.

The movie is set "thousands of years before the Pyramids" and tells the story of Mathayus (The Rock), an Arkadian assassin hired to kill the evil Scorpion King, Memnon (Steven Brand). Memnon has conquered most of his enemies and uses a sorceress, Cassandra (Kelly Hu), to map his battle plans. Mathayus and his team, which includes a Nubian giant (Michael Clarke Duncan), a scientist who has invented gunpowder, a clever kid, and a wisecracking horse thief, invade Memnon's desert stronghold to stop him.



The plot is predictable, and the dialogue is cheesy, but the movie is aware of its shortcomings and plays on them to create a fun and entertaining experience. The special effects are not particularly impressive, but they are enjoyable in their absurdity. The scene where Mathayus shoots a guy with an arrow, and the force sends him crashing through a wall and flying through the air is a prime example of the movie's over-the-top action.

The Rock's performance is solid, and he shows promise as an action movie star. His character is a skilled fighter with a quick wit and a soft spot for his camel. However, the movie does not provide any insight into how he morphs into the villain of "The Mummy Returns." It is a minor quibble, but it does leave a plot hole.

Kelly Hu's Cassandra is a typical damsel in distress, with the added twist that she is also a powerful sorceress. Her long, flowing hair cascades down over her breasts, which are covered to within one centimeter of the PG-13 guidelines. It is a deliberate attempt to titillate the audience without going too far, and it works.



The supporting cast is also enjoyable, with Michael Clarke Duncan providing the muscle and Grant Heslov as Arpid, the wisecracking horse thief. The scenes where Arpid tries to steal Mathayus's camel, and they end up teaming up are among the movie's highlights.

The movie's pacing is brisk, and it never takes itself too seriously, which is refreshing. The action sequences are well choreographed, and the humor is well-placed, providing a few laughs without disrupting the flow of the movie.

Overall, "The Scorpion King" is an entertaining action-adventure movie that does not take itself too seriously. The recycled plot and cheesy dialogue are forgivable because the movie knows what it is and embraces it. The Rock shows promise as an action movie star, and the supporting cast provides enough humor and muscle to make the movie enjoyable. The special effects may not be impressive, but they are enjoyable in their absurdity. If you are looking for a fun and entertaining movie, "The Scorpion King" is worth a watch