Ocean’s Thirteen A-

Starring George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Al Pacino and Matt Damon

Directed by Stephen Soderbergh

Rated PG-13 for brief sensuality

Appropriate for ages 13+

The Story: Danny Ocean (Clooney) and gang almost lose one of their mates to a heart attack brought on by the shady dealings of a major hotel builder (Pacino).  In an effort to seek revenge against him, they do everything in their power to stop his new Las Vegas Strip hotel from opening. 

The Good: Unlike the second film, and even the first one, the film makers decided not to trick the audience, but rather to let the audience fully join in on the fun.  We get to sit back and watch all of the action taking place not having to worry about an ending that hits you out of left field.  These characters are so charismatic and enjoyable to watch that they make you feel part of the gang, and it creates a heck of a good time in the process.  The performances are all very good and you can tell right away that they had fun making the movie.  Also, while it’s not a comedy, there are some very funny moments, especially a couple involving Oprah, that add the frosting to the cake. 

The Bad: We know that director Soderbergh likes to do some weird montage sequences and this film is no different.  Throughout the film, whenever a lot of action is taking place, it’s done in a montage, and some of these sequences are just a little too artsy and out of place for a film such as this.  Also, everything falls into place a little too perfectly and the story seems a little too simple at times.  Still, I’d rather have the simple story than the tricky, nonsensical plotlines found in the first two films. 

The Summary: They finally got it right with this third Ocean installment.