12 Monkeys MPAA Rating: R Entertainment: +3 Content: -2

By the year 2035, 99% of the earth's population has been wiped out by a virus. Survivors must live underground to avoid contamination while scientists beneath the streets of Philadelphia are working frantically to find a cure. To get a sample of the pure virus, they must travel back in time to its beginning in 1996. James Cole (Bruce Willis), a prisoner, is selected for the time travel. But instead of being sent to 1996, he accidentally ends up in 1990. Thought to be a mental patient, he is put in a hospital. He meets Jeffery Goines (Brad Pitt), crazy son of a famous doctor of viruses. Cole and Goines are both put under the care of Dr. Kathryn Railly (Madeline Stowe) who is researching the connection between prophets and madmen. When Cole disappears from the hospital and reappears in 1996, he kidnaps Railly to help him find the Army of 12 Monkeys, a group headed by Goines. Cole thinks they released Goines' father's virus. Special effects are a highlight as this intriguing mystery keeps you guessing. Excellent performances by the cast add to the enjoyment.

In their studies, the scientists use prisoners to collect insect and animal samples above ground, subjecting them to possible exposure. Rear male nudity occurs during Cole's decontamination, and again as he's taken to the mental hospital. More rear nudity is shown when Goines exposes his buttocks for the hospital staff. Goines also uses a crude finger gesture often. The most objectionable element, however, is the film's violence. A sometimes violent prisoner, cuts and bruises appear on Cole's face. He hits and kicks guards, policemen, or anyone else in his way as he struggles to escape. To rescue Railly, Cole kicks one man in the crotch and slams his head into a wall and also takes part in some graphic shootings. Later, he cuts out his own teeth, shown in his bloody hand, to remove the time travel retriever. The Bible's Book of Revelation is quoted a few times to link prophets with time travelers, referencing the seven angels pouring out seven vials to destroy the earth. Although the film has no sexual content and Cole performs some heroic deeds, regular profanity, obscene language and violence make this movie one to avoid.

Preview Reviewer: Paul Bicking
Distributor: Universal Pictures, 100 Universal Blvd., Universal City, CA 91608