Writer: Lester Gan Wai Lun

Writer Ratings:
Overall:
Cast:
Plot:
Effects:
Cinematography:

Watch this if you liked: “Johnny English” and “Mr. Bean Holiday”

With a new director and screenwriter, "Johnny English Reborn" has blown its 2003 predecessor out of the water with a brand new adventure, one that is funnier and more satisfying. Director Oliver Parker brought out all of Rowan Atkinson's (Mr. Bean) talents as a comedian, resulting in this approximately 100-minute film of practically non-stop laughter.

Whatever that had been done wrong in the first film, has now been fixed. Rowan Atkinson is a master at inducing laughter without saying a word, but when clever words are put into his script combined with his countless facial expressions and fancy dance moves, he has undoubtedly proven himself to be one of the best comedy actors out there.

Rowan Atkinson as Johnny English was first class; there were times in this film that he was so funny that one would disregard any dialogue taking place. It is amazing how the other actors are able to keep a straight face around him. Rosamund Pike plays a behavioral psychologist named Kate Summer; she shares a great interest in Johnny and aids him in identifying the enemy through hypnosis. Daniel Kaluuya plays Tucker, and does a good job as a young intuitive spy, his character reminds the reviewer of a milder version of Chris Tucker from the "Rush Hour" films.

With that being said, the plot has its weak points, though it is easily forgivable with the standard of comedy provided. It is however a definite improvement compared to the original. This film feels like a combination of intelligently witty British humour infused with the foolish slapstick of an American comedy film, which can only result in awesomeness.

All in all, as one of the better comedy films this year, fans of Rowan Atkinson will not be disappointed. A sequel to this film will definitely be expected in the near future.

Cinema Online, 12 September 2011