Cradle 2 the Grave MPAA Rating: R Entertainment: +1 Content: -3

In this action thriller, jewel thief Tony Fait (Earl DMX Simmons) and his team of slick burglars (Anthony Anderson, Gabrielle Union, Drag-on) steal a little more than they bargain for. In a masterful heist that goes awry, they walk away with only some curious black stones to fence. But soon they discover that the stones are black diamonds, a prize that everyone seems to want, including martial arts expert and Taiwanese government agent Su (Jet Li). Though Fait attempts to sell the stones through his pawn broker, Archie (Tom Arnold), those who want them attempt to take them by ruthless force, even kidnapping his beautiful young daughter Vanessa (Paige Hurd) and demanding the stones as a ransom. Fait is left with no choice but to join forces with Su in an attempt to uncover the mystery of the stones and to save his daughter.

In an attempt to say something positive about this film, a person might concede that there were some phenomenal action scenes, spectacular chases, and excellent comedy relief from Tom Arnold and Anthony Anderson. Unfortunately, the movies weak plot failed to unify the action into some sort of meaningful story. Instead, it was a two-hour excuse to see Jet Li and DMX get into the most absurd fight scenes possible, most of which did nothing to advance the story line. Perhaps Hollywood will eventually get over the impulse to portray life (particularly the lives of criminals) in such an overtly clichd and unnatural way. Were also tired of films that have no respect for the laws of physics and can't seem to get through a sentence without the F-word. Due to the excessive violence, sexual content, racist remarks and rough language, any self-respecting person will avoid this film at all costs!

Preview Reviewer: Shaun Daugherty
Distributor: Warner Brothers