Now Playing

Here's a look at the totally unnecessary sequel, "Wrath of the Titans."

Wrath of the Titans

Starring: Sam Worthington, Rosamund Pike, Liam Neeson, and Ralph Fiennes

Synopsis: The last few years have brought renewed interest in Greek and Roman mythology when it comes to action blockbusters. The original “Clash of the Titans” appeared in 1981, and was viewed as something of a cult classic. In 2010, the film was re-made in 3D with plenty of modern special effects. A similar story was told in 2011 with “The Immortals,” which looked as slightly different parts of the mythology. And now, in earlier 2012, we have a sequel to the original re-make — “Wrath of the Titans.” Of course, if that’s not enough loincloths, 3D creatures, angry gods, and bloody fighting for you, there are rumors of a third “Clash of the Titans” film in 2014. “Wrath of the Titans” isn’t a deep film. It’s not complex. It doesn’t spend hours developing its characters. It doesn’t make a big social statement. It’s not a meaningful film. But it’s not meant to be, and more importantly that’s not what the “Wrath of the Titans” audience wants. If you want meaningful and deep stories, you’ll find it elsewhere. Likely if you’re turning out for “Wrath of the Titans,” much like when you turned out for “Clash of the Titans,” you’re looking for epic battles, sparse dialogue, and big computer-generated effects. In some ways it makes sense that these films have been reborn. In the 1980s the technology didn’t fully allow for embrace the vision and possibility of these films. Now, it certainly does. In addition to a bevy of special effects, the films are presented in 3D to help audiences become an even bigger part of the action. To a certain extent it works. The action sequences are done fairly well, and those looking for a good sword and sandals epic will be satisfied. The acting is passable — and might even be a step up from the first film. The story works fine if you don’t really think about it too hard and you can tell most of the time and money on the production went into the epic set pieces. “Wrath of the Titans” isn’t a great film, nor is it a memorable film, but it does achieve its aims. It provides 99 minutes of entertainment that you don’t have to think about too hard. Sometimes that’s just what you’re looking for as you escape to the theater.

Rating:PG-13 for intense sequences of fantasy violence and action.

Verdict: Two stars out of four.

Upcoming Releases:

Friday, April 6 — "Titanic," "American Reunion"

Friday, April 13 — "Cabin in the Woods," "Lockout," "The Three Stooges"

Friday, April 20 — "The Lucky One," "Chimpanzee," "Think Like A Man," "Arctic 3D"

Friday, April 27 — "The Five Year Engagement," "The Raven," "The Pirates! A Band of Misfits," "Safe"