“Casino Royale” was rated R, but a lot of families with teenagers and pre-teens enjoyed the latest Bond film anyway for its innovative action sequences and loving, extended takes of real Texas Hold ‘Em poker hands. Kids these days – they love them some Vegas action.
“Ocean’s Thirteen” may have caught your family-gambler’s eye, with it’s continuation of the franchise and its friendly PG-13 ratings. A seduction scene, though, between Matt Damon and a bodacious Ellen Barkin, could have your kids squirming. Or more likely, you squirming on their behalf.
So I would go back to the first “Ocean’s” remake on DVD, “Ocean’s Eleven,” from 2001. If you don’t mind one f-bomb and a few other profanities, it’s a terrific family film for kids who like a smart plot and adults who love glamour.
George Clooney, of course, plays the old Frank Sinatra part, getting out of prison and hatching a heist/revenge plot against Andy Garcia. Garcia stole a casino from Clooney’s friend (Elliott Gould) and also stole Clooney’s ex-wife (Julia Roberts, sleek and distant). Clooney, Brad Pitt, Damon and a cast of hilarious character actors conspire to break into Garcia’s vault underneath the Bellagio, the Mirage and the MGM Grand.
See if you and the kids can decipher the funny names director Stephen Soderbergh gives each con game in the film, from an “Ella Fitzgerald” to a “Boesky” and a “Leon Spinks.” Soderbergh delights in the lingo, and uses it to great effect in “Ocean’s Thirteen,” as well. For help interpreting and explaining to the children, go to wikipedia.com’s entry on “Ocean’s Eleven.”
As for sequels, I happened to love “Ocean’s Twelve” and its elaborate use of Roberts. My kids enjoyed the French cat burglar’s floor dance to get past the museum laser alarms. Most critics hated it, but hey, who listens to critics?
Each Tuesday, Michael Booth uncovers a movie gem for families in search of rewarding entertainment. Send suggestions to mbooth@denverpost.com
“Ocean’s Eleven”
RATED | PG for adult situations, profanity and violenceBEST SUITED FOR | Children
9 or older
