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Arts & Entertainment
 

'Catwoman' misses, fails to land on feet

By Amy Perez
The Daily Cougar

Despite the resurgence of everyone's favorite web-slinging hero earlier this summer, it should be noted that not all comic book characters thrive in the motion picture realm. Catwoman, a movie that haphazardly updates the femme feline image, falls into the category of hyped-up movies that appear novel at first glance, yet have the capacity to disappoint even the most imaginative comic book zealot (think Hulk or Daredevil).

Oscar winner Halle Berry plays Patience Phillips, a doormat working as a graphic designer for the cosmetic conglomerate Hedare Beauty. One night while working late, she overhears top secret information about the company's latest anti-aging cream and is killed. By the powers of a mysterious cat, Phillips is reborn with the ability to balance on narrow ledges, nap in high bookshelves and generate sensual noises -- without the adverse effects of hairballs, heartworms and being chased by canines. Phillips also picked up the ability to vertically cling to the sides of buildings and perform somersaults.

If the slew of unrealistic abilities and drab, yet "modern" storyline seem too much for Berry to single-handedly carry, it's because they are. Audience members will yawn as they watch Phillips struggle with her new dual identity and roll their eyes when they hear Tom Lone (the typecast Benjamin Bratt) try to flatter her. Even the addition of vixen Laurel Hedare (Sharon Stone) and the comic relief of Phillips' unabashedly single friend Sally (Alex Borstein) can't save the far-fetched mythical Catwoman notion presented.

What may be most disappointing to viewers is the fact that the movie doesn't revive comic book nemesis Selina Kyle, but instead attempts to recreate the Catwoman character entirely to fit today's standards. But without a strong story to back the action, Catwoman consists of mostly digital images of a high-flying, leather-clad Berry, who appears to be championing masochism more than heroism.

Catwoman

Warner Bros. Pictures

Rated: PG-13

Starring: Halle Berry, Sharon Stone

The verdict: Catwoman should be put to sleep.
 

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