A-Team Gets an A+!!

By Alli Powers on June 14, 2010

Ah, the 80s! One of the last decades to showcase originality. And, unfortunately, also being the first decade to unapologetically rehash old content for mass-market appeal. Perfect fodder then for a tv-to-movie reboot. But if you’re like us, and get goose bumps upon hearing the first three notes of the A-Team theme, none of the above matters. In fact, the “A” stands for “Awesome” in regards to this film.

The movie itself doesn’t stray too far from the TV series. That is due, in part, to original TV show creator Stephen J Cannell’s involvement with the feature. In fact, the film does a really good job of explaining of how the crew formed in the first place. Whereas the TV show merely gave you a brief history of the “crack commando unit hiding in the LA underground” before each episode, the A-Team movie uses the television 30-second intro as a direct blueprint/blank canvas.

The film opens with how Col. Hannibal Smith (the leader of the A Team, and played by Liam Neeson), meets BA Baracus (portrayed by UFC Fighter Quinton ’Rampage’ Jackson). Rampage does a great job not only playing BA but paying homage to Mr T’s portrayal of the character as well. Bradley Cooper does an exceptional job as Face. The ridiculously insane Murdock is played brilliantly by District 9’s Sharlto Copley. Everything you want from the opening scenes are there, from explosions to the famous black and red GMC van.

We fast forward a few years to find the boys stationed in Iraq, and in this segment of the movie we find another eighties icon, Gerald McRaney, (Simon and Simon, and Major Dad) portraying General Morrison. We are also introduced to Jessica Biel as Army Capt. Charisa Sosa—who has a romantic history with Face. The chemistry between Biel and Cooper isn’t exactly Bogey and Becall, but it works for an action film based on and 80’s TV show.

Then comes the part where we find out about the “Crime they didn’t commit.” Without giving away too many spoilers, lets just say that in this juncture, ‘the plan’ DOESN’T come together. What follows are completely UN-realistic—yet TOTALLY AWESOME—special effects and explosions galore.

It’s everything you could hope for in an A Team movie. There are a few plot twists throughout to keep the film moving, and some moments from a character stand point that you don’t expect. Also Copley’s antics as Murdock keeps you in stitches throughout the film. There’s also a great cameo at the end that sets up a superb sequel.

From a personal standpoint, I felt I had relived my childhood for a solid two hours, and my girl was equally pleased to be introduced to the four characters that so many my age had grown up admiring. Great flick, it doesn’t disappoint, go see it!!