Review of Code Name: The Cleaner (2007) by Erikka N — 18 Jun 2007

When considering the miscasting of several supporting characters, the overuse of martial arts, and the non-stop rambling of Cedric the Entertainer, this film really had no reason to be put into creation. The only possible redeeming quality is Lucy Liu, who just may be as close to a perfect physical appearance as you'll find.

The plot is predictable, the jokes are weak and its obvious because the bonus features make things clear that nearly every line is from improvisation. Cedric the Entertainer seems to think that saying anything is funny, which is pathetic considering he's the main character. The plot of a janitor working at a video game company who finds a mysterious chip is utter nonsense. A kindergarten student could come up with that in a comic book assignment. Needless to say, the plot was terrible and it's amazing how a studio would have granted funding for this project.

Despite my hatred towards the technical aspects of the comedy, there are various sequences that may make a viewer chuckle, or even laugh out loud. Lucy Liu isn't half bad as the waitress side kick, and she's pretty easy to look at. Surprisingly, that actress is very convincing when working with a ludicrous plot that people are supposed to take seriously.

As far as entertainment value goes, this isn't the worst time you'll have watching a movie. However, some of the lines which are performed "seriously" may make a viewer wince in embarassment for the cast. The martial arts are completely ridiculous, and nearly every aspect of the film is.

The upside of the DVD is the "Making of" featurette. It's quite amusing to see the enthusiasm of the cast, although their happiness on set did little to upgrade the final project.