It's not too long into Wild Wild West before you know you're not exactly watching cinema verite... with James West's (Will Smith) lovemaking in a watertank being interrupted in spectacular fashion only to clash with Artemus Gordon (Kevin Kline) in drag, both trying to catch the same man, General Bloodbath McGrath. Quickdraw West and suave inventor Gordon form a very odd couple indeed as they're sent to discover the mystery of missing scientists by President Grant (also played by Kline). Their investigation leads them to Arlis Loveless, a legless Kenneth Branagh, who it seems is plotting the downfall of the United States as we know it.
a gadget-packed romp with illogical but extraordinary design elements
Based on a sixties TV series, Wild Wild West is a gadget-packed romp with illogical but extraordinary design elements, terrific cinematography by Michael Ballhaus and a narrative and dialogue that reflects the number of cooks of this particular broth. Will Smith has a cocky assurance as West, but for the first time in a long time Kevin Kline is less than his usual brilliant self. Salma Hayek is wasted in a girlie spot, supposedly the daughter of one of the missing scientists. Kenneth Branagh gets his tongue around those southern vowels to relish his master criminal status in between Shakespeare outings. Wild Wild West is a farce that's occasionally funny, often in a rather laboured way, occasionally thrilling and more than occasionally puerile.
David's Comments: Huge budget popcorn movie with wonderful machines, charismatic leads, spectacular stunts – and not much in the way of story or script. Kenneth Branagh's stunted villain is enjoyably over the top (and I loved his spider-beard), Will Smith is a rugged hero, and Kenneth Kline has fun with his various disguises. Salma Hayek doesn't have nearly enough to do. A silly, but not unenjoyable, romp.
David's Comments: Huge budget popcorn movie with wonderful machines, charismatic leads, spectacular stunts – and not much in the way of story or script. Kenneth Branagh's stunted villain is enjoyably over the top (and I loved his spider-beard), Will Smith is a rugged hero, and Kenneth Kline has fun with his various disguises. Salma Hayek doesn't have nearly enough to do. A silly, but not unenjoyable, romp.
