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July 3, 2008

Back in the '90s, few people would have imagined that Will Smith, TV's "Fresh Prince of Bel-Air," would someday be one of three actors to star in seven consecutive $100 million blockbusters. But he is -- and with "Hancock," he may just make it eight...

Joe Reed

Back in the '90s, few people would have imagined that Will Smith, TV's "Fresh Prince of Bel-Air," would someday be one of three actors to star in seven consecutive $100 million blockbusters. But he is -- and with "Hancock," he may just make it eight.

Smith's character in "Hancock" is the anti-Superman. He has all the powers of a superhero, but none of the charm. He's rude, destructive and, more often than not, drunk. Most of L.A. hates him, super powers and all. But one man, who just happens to be in public relations, sees the good in Hancock. Ray Embrey (Jason Bateman) takes Hancock under his wing, promising to make the public love him. He also introduces him to his son and his wife, Mary (Charlize Theron). Over the course of the film, Hancock learns he may not be the only person out there with powers like his own. He also learns to be a better hero.

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"Hancock" has many great moments. A particularly amusing scene had Ray reviewing some of Hancock's finer moments via YouTube. There are also a couple of surprises and plot twists that keep the story from getting dull or stale, even when the action slows down for a bit.

Smith owns the film. With any other actor in the role, Hancock would be totally unlikable, but Smith's natural charm redeems the character. The rest of the cast is also good, with Bateman and Theron particularly standing out. Also making a presence in the film is the special effects, which carry almost all the major action scenes.

"Hancock" is the perfect summer film. It's big, it's loud, it's action-packed, and it has just the right amount of humor and a touch of romance. And for fans of the superhero genre who want a new twist on an old formula, it's a must-see.

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