Finally, an idea for a remake that makes sense. Too often some studio executive gets it into his or her head to take a classic film and remake it (or in some case cases re-imagine) in the hopes of somehow recapturing the magic (but more so the money) that made the original so good. More often than not it is a dismal failure and one would hope that said studio executive is back in the mailroom where they belong. “The Italian Job” is a remake of an ‘okay’ 1969 film. This is why it makes sense. The studio took an older, less successful film with a good premise and remade it with the intention of improving on the plot. And in doing so, succeeded. In 2003, “The Italian Job” makes some major changes, which not only tighten the story but also add stronger characterizations and bits of humor for the ensemble cast to work with.

Speaking of cast, you can’t go wrong with a combination that includes Mark Wahlberg, Edward Norton and Seth Green. Green was especially funny in this film, but I’m still waiting for him to find that ‘breakout’ role he so richly deserves. I was even a bit more impressed by Charlize Theron than I usually am. Theron has generally been utilized as eye candy since her acting skills are minimal, but here I definitely see an improvement over some of her past performances.

“The Italian Job” is one of those movies that I can really get into. I love a good ‘heist’ flick, whether or not the heist goes sour. This particular film also has the added benefit of car chases to keep the pace brisk.

As with most Paramount DVD releases, the sound and video are nearly flawless. Though here the sound shoots way ahead in the poles. I never had any problems hearing any of the dialogue, even when surrounded by some of the loud noises inherent in a ‘car chase’ movie.

I wasn’t as enthused about the extras on the disc. When you read the back it really sounds like you get a ton of stuff, but most of the featurettes are fairly short, and give only basic info about the making of the film. Two of the extras will interest fans of the Mini Coopers, which are featured prominently in the film itself. One on particular really made me want to get behind the wheel of one.

“The Italian Job” is an above average film with an exceptional cast, and is far more entertaining than I had expected it to be. Paramount is also releasing the original film at the same time, but if you have to choose between the two, this is the one to go for.

Directed by: F. Gary Gray
Starring: Mark Wahlberg, Charlize Theron, Edward Norton, Seth Green, Jason Statham, Mos Def, Frankg, and Donald Sutherland
Extras: Pedal to the Metal – The Making of The Italian Job, Putting the Word on the Page for the Italian Job, The Italian Job Driving School, The Mighty Minis of The Italian Job, High Octane Stunts from The Italian Job, 6 Deleted Scenes, Theatrical Trailer
Specifications: Widescreen Version Enhanced for 16:9 TVs, Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound, English and French Dolby Surround
Studio: Paramount
Release Date: 10/7/2003
Region 1
MPAA Rating: PG-13 (For Violence and Some Language)
Website

We'll give The Italian Job a B.