Film Review: Annapolis (2006)
The ever-risky business of filmmaking continues to present promising premises that falter upon release due to shifting public sentiments. One such example is the 2006 military drama Annapolis, directed by Justin Lin and produced by Disney. The film was initially intended to capitalise on the wave of patriotism following the September 11 attacks and the reverence for the US military. Unfortunately, it arrived at a time when public opinion had become increasingly divided and disillusioned with the escalating Iraq War.
The protagonist, Jake Huard (played by James Franco), is a young man from a family of naval shipbuilders who has always dreamed of attending the prestigious United States Naval Academy at Annapolis, Maryland. Upon achieving this long-held ambition, it becomes clear that Jake is ill-prepared for the rigours of his new life. Struggling academically and embroiled in a contentious relationship with Cole (played by Tyrese Gibson), his senior midshipman and company commander, Jake finds solace in his budding romance with Alison "Ali" Haloway (played by Jordana Brewster), a high-ranking female midshipman. His boxing talent would allow him opportunity to enter Brigades, boxing tournament open to midshipmen regardless of rank, where he would have Cole as his main opponent.
The script, penned by Dave Collard, is unfortunately formulaic and lacking in originality. The plot combines elements from the classic films An Officer and a Gentleman and Rocky, but these two influences do not mix well. Consequently, inevitable comparisons to those classics make Annapolis appear even more lacklustre than it truly is. The script is saturated with clichés and predictabilities, making it easy for even the least experienced viewers to guess how the plot will unfold.
James Franco, who was one of Hollywood's rising stars in the early 21st century, delivers a passable but uninspiring performance. The same can be said for Tyrese Gibson, who was miscast in the film and reportedly had a strained relationship with Franco on set. Justin Lin, who would later become a successful director thanks to his work on the Fast and Furious franchise, disappoints alongside the rest of the cast and crew.
At the end of the day, unless one has not seen any Hollywood films prior to 2006, it is likely that Annapolis will be considered a complete waste of time. The film's combination of clichéd dialogue, formulaic plot, and underwhelming performances make it utterly forgettable.
RATING: 2/10 (-)
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