Skulls, The MPAA Rating: PG-13 Entertainment: +2 1/2 Content: -2

This adventure thriller revolves around an actual current phenomenon in America - elite secret societies in prestigious American universities. Being much more selective and secretive than fraternities, the societies are virtually unknown. At a prestigious Ivy League university, Luke McNamara (Joshua Jackson), a very determined young college man from a humble background, who wants to go to law school. When he is invited to join a secret society know as The Skulls, he jumps at the chance since the society will likely obtain his admission to law school and pay his expenses. But his choice raises the ire of his best friend and roommate, Will Beckford (Hill Harper), who is convinced that any highly secret society is bound to be undesirable. Soon, though, Joshua finds a soul mate in another man invited into the society, Caleb Mandrake (Paul Walker). However, the bond between the two men is shaken when Will is harmed and Joshua suspects both the society and Caleb are involved. Although the story is somewhat traditional and predictable, this mystery with some unique plot twists makes for a suspenseful thriller. But young adult and teenage audiences will probably go for it, particularly those attracted to teen idols Jackson and Walker.

Whether the secret society is portrayed accurately is difficult to know. According to press materials, although he does not favor them, writer John Pogue, who joined one of these societies, concluded from his personal experience that there are some good things about secret societies. In the film, older members of the society will do almost anything to perpetuate the society and exploit its benefits in their professional lives. In some cases, this means severe violence as men are beaten and even killed. When this becomes clear to Joshua, he determines to stand against them and risks his life for truth and justice. Joshuas girlfriend, Chloe (Leslie Bibb), shares his convictions and risks her life as well. In standard Hollywood fashion, Joshua and Chloe are shown in a brief passionate encounter and start undressing each other, but no nudity or sexual activity is shown. Chloe and others are also prone to spew obscenities and profanities in crisis situations. Despite its uplifting aspects, the usual foul language and premarital sex implied as acceptable tarnish THE SKULLS.

Preview Reviewer: John Evans
Distributor: Universal Pictures, 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608