Imagined Scenario: Fast forward to January 2007. Movie theaters were sparse on choices as they were mostly filled with holiday films being used for awards season. The pickings were slim, with movies like Code Name: The Cleaner starring Cedric the Entertainer and the remake of The Hitcher being your only options. This was before streaming services could boost a movie’s visibility. Smokin’ Aces, a pulse-pounding action flick, was released on January 26th that year. It embodied the style of the era in terms of how action movies were portrayed. Though it’s not often discussed now, it remains a must-watch film for its high-energy action sequences and unique storytelling.
In the movie “Smokin’ Aces,” Las Vegas magician Buddy “Aces” Israel, who secretly operates as a gangster, decides to betray his former partner and friend, Primo Sparazza, by testifying against him. This decision leads Israel to the Witness Protection Program. However, before any agreement can be made between Israel and the FBI, news of Israel’s betrayal leaks out, prompting Sparazza to put a bounty on his head. As a result, an assortment of quirky assassins and hitmen are dispatched to eliminate Israel while he remains safe in his Lake Tahoe penthouse.
In recent times, no movie has been quite like this one since the 1970s – an exhilarating rollercoaster ride featuring a huge group of actors. What sets this extraordinary cast apart is that each of these accomplished performers were at different stages of their careers. Essentially, Smokin’ Aces seems to be serving as a springboard for numerous established talents aiming to take the next big leap in Hollywood.
For instance, Ryan Reynolds and Jason Bateman, who worked together in the 2011 comedy “The Change Up”, had notable roles in “Smokin’ Aces”. In this film, Bateman portrayed Rupert ‘Rip’ Reed, a lawyer with a penchant for living dangerously due to his addictions. His law firm had previously rescued Israel from jail, and now they are in disarray as they strive to save Israel’s life.
Despite its short duration, Bateman’s acting in this role is particularly notable and deviates from the familiar “grumpy 40-something character” we came to know him as in later movies and shows. In Smokin’ Aces, which was released while he was starring in Arrested Development, Bateman had not yet achieved widespread recognition.
In this movie, it’s Ryan Reynolds who takes on a pivotal role, featuring one of the most impactful character developments among all. Portraying FBI Agent Richard Messner, Reynolds joins forces with seasoned agent Donald Carruthers, played by Ray Liotta. Upon hearing about the million-dollar bounty on Isarel’s head, they leap into action. This film showcases Ryan Reynolds during his period after Van Wilder but before Deadpool. In Aces, we see that Reynolds is not only a comedic genius but also a genuine movie star, with his acting skills and chemistry with Liotta significantly enhancing the film.
Beyond the cast list of this movie, there’s also Ben Affleck, before he became a director, taking on a role. He acts alongside Peter Berg, another director, and Martin Henderson, known for his work on Netflix’s popular series, Virgin River. Together, they portray a group of tough-as-nails hired guns in the film.
Prominent figures include Alicia Keys delivering a captivating R&B performance, rapper Common, Chris Pine prior to his role as Captain Kirk, Taraji P. Henson following her impressive debut in 2005’s “Hustle & Flow”, Joel Edgerton post his roles in “Star Wars”, and Matthew Fox from the series “Lost”.
Originally produced for $17 million, the movie titled “Smokin’ Aces” received mixed feedback but managed to earn an impressive $57 million at the box office. In 2010, a direct-to-video sequel, “Smokin’ Aces 2: Assassins Ball,” was released. This second installment had only a few actors from the original film reprising their roles.
Is it flawless in any way? Not at all. Is it worth investing your time? Definitely. The raw disorder depicted on screen, particularly during the climax, mirrors how action films without the status of summer blockbusters appeared back then. This is a glimpse of what the genre looked like on the brink of comic book adaptations becoming mainstream.
Bold action sequences, flamboyant characters that push boundaries, and fast-paced editing designed to quicken your pulse – if you’re revisiting some underrated rollercoaster rides from the 2000s, don’t forget to include this one in your list.
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2025-01-05 18:10