REVIEW: Fool's Gold a Pleasant Surprise

By Connect Mason Reporter Emily Culley

Working at the movie theater has given me two or three benefits. One, the ability to judge a movie solely based on the movie poster. Two, the ability to pick a movie for a customer based on their mood. And three, free movie tickets (obvious plus).

Take Fool's Gold for example. The movie poster has Matthew McConaughey and Kate Hudson looking into each others' eyes with pure happiness and eagerness—as all young loves do. The lighting, body language and direction of the poster is clearly aimed at showing off Hudson's body.

Overall, the poster suggests a typical girlie love movie. While there are a couple of moments where the plot line borders a redundant love story; the bulk of the actual plot includes snappy action-based mischief and treasure hunt.

Working at the movie theater also has its drawbacks; movie releases become a prediction of what type of audience the movie will attract.

Admittedly, Fool's Gold will bring in a lot of younger girls looking for a sweet romantic film (they may be slightly disappointed to learn that romance is not nearly the primary plot of the movie). While their dates, on the other hand, will be pleasantly surprised to learn that the movie has a lot of comical action and even some gruesome fight scenes.

Honestly, I have to admit that I was taken by surprise when I began enjoying the movie, which was almost immediately. The introduction is a whimsical and entertaining sequence setting the flow for the rest of the movie. The director also borrowed a couple bits of British humor to help the introduction. Actor Ewen Bremmer's presence (Death at a Funeral) didn't hurt either.

By the end of the introduction, Ben “Finn” Finnegan's character is completely mapped out and figured to the tee. Shortly thereafter, the movie introduces Kate Hudson's character, Tess Finnegan, who is almost the polar opposite of Finn.

On the plus side, the movie thoroughly builds its characters and plot. While I'm able to sympathize with Tess for wanting to divorce Finn, I can understand why Finn wants to go off gallivanting along the coasts in search of a long lost treasure.

On the minus side, there is a little too much nonsensical violence and overly obvious love parts.

Overall, the movie was enjoyable. I'd say, if you're in a light-hearted mood, looking for an entertaining movie with a good soundtrack and a happy ending — go see it.