423 reviews
'Stealth' was a box office bomb. Critics hated it. Audiences didn't like it. So why did I enjoy it so much then?
Many of the comments expressed distinct dislike towards the fact that EDI, the warplane, could talk. But let's think about this for a second. Back in the 80's there was a talking car, KITT from Knight Rider. Today we have computers, electronics, gadgets, phones, etc that talk to us. So why not a plane - which essentially is a computer itself ?
The film revolves around the said plane, EDI - an unmanned fighter-bomber stealth plane. The future of digital warfare is here; a plane that 'thinks' for itself. Quite honestly, if this would eliminate soldiers dying in war, I'm all for digital warfare!
Three pilots were chosen for the program: Lt. Ben (Josh Lucas), Lt. Kara (Jessica Biel), and Lt. Henry (Jamie Foxx). I must be honest, I didn't like the Henry character. I got the feeling they needed a third pilot merely for comic relief (initially), and to create a turning point in the movie. This character was underdeveloped with lousy dialogue and it seemed they didn't know what to do with this character until he was needed for the turning point, as mentioned. He slowed the movie down...
After being hit by lightning, EDI malfunctions and becomes unstable and destructive. The action sequences are really good. The visual effects are not always good, but for most parts it were pretty good. The film takes us on a rollercoaster adventure from the US to Russian airspace, North Korea, and Alaska. The main antagonist is Captain George Cummings (Sam Shepard), who has ulterior motives and as a result makes questionable decisions.
'Stealth' is an action adventure thriller I actually thoroughly enjoyed. I've watched it a few times now and enjoy it ever time. And yes, I did enjoy it more than 'Top Gun'. (I've tried watching 'Top Gun' 3 times already and I simply can't get into that movie!! I find it boring with annoying characters). There, I said it; now crucify me for being honest!
'Stealth' has a really exciting finale. Oh, and just saying; Josh Lucas is a feast for the eyes!!
Would I watch it again? Yes.
Many of the comments expressed distinct dislike towards the fact that EDI, the warplane, could talk. But let's think about this for a second. Back in the 80's there was a talking car, KITT from Knight Rider. Today we have computers, electronics, gadgets, phones, etc that talk to us. So why not a plane - which essentially is a computer itself ?
The film revolves around the said plane, EDI - an unmanned fighter-bomber stealth plane. The future of digital warfare is here; a plane that 'thinks' for itself. Quite honestly, if this would eliminate soldiers dying in war, I'm all for digital warfare!
Three pilots were chosen for the program: Lt. Ben (Josh Lucas), Lt. Kara (Jessica Biel), and Lt. Henry (Jamie Foxx). I must be honest, I didn't like the Henry character. I got the feeling they needed a third pilot merely for comic relief (initially), and to create a turning point in the movie. This character was underdeveloped with lousy dialogue and it seemed they didn't know what to do with this character until he was needed for the turning point, as mentioned. He slowed the movie down...
After being hit by lightning, EDI malfunctions and becomes unstable and destructive. The action sequences are really good. The visual effects are not always good, but for most parts it were pretty good. The film takes us on a rollercoaster adventure from the US to Russian airspace, North Korea, and Alaska. The main antagonist is Captain George Cummings (Sam Shepard), who has ulterior motives and as a result makes questionable decisions.
'Stealth' is an action adventure thriller I actually thoroughly enjoyed. I've watched it a few times now and enjoy it ever time. And yes, I did enjoy it more than 'Top Gun'. (I've tried watching 'Top Gun' 3 times already and I simply can't get into that movie!! I find it boring with annoying characters). There, I said it; now crucify me for being honest!
'Stealth' has a really exciting finale. Oh, and just saying; Josh Lucas is a feast for the eyes!!
Would I watch it again? Yes.
- paulclaassen
- Mar 1, 2022
- Permalink
I was so looking forward to this film but it turned out to be a really barebones movie. It has the smallest semblance of a plot, the actors are given nothing to work with and the tension is not really believable. The story turns out to be really dumb and have no payoff.
- briancham1994
- Jun 3, 2020
- Permalink
The picture concerns about two all-American boys(Josh Lucas, Jamie Foxx) and a brave girl(Jessica Biel).They are the best US Navy pilots and were chosen by Captain Cummins(Sam Shepard) to fly the latest marvel aircraft, Stealth fighter, called Talons, a supersonic fighting planes. They go behind world terrorists into Rangun and Kirghistan. Captain Cummins adds a new member to the team, an unmanned combat aerial vehicle that is being flown by a computer called Edi( voice of Wentworth Miller) with an artificial intelligence brain inside the cockpit and operated by a technician(Richard Roxburgh). But the exceptional Stealth is struck by a lightning and like HAL from ¨2001, Space Odyssey", starts to think for itself, rebelling against the humans. The trio ought to stop it , before begins WWIII.
This is a well produced and entertaining film though some moments is lamentably dull, for that reason is instantly forgettable trifle. The story of three valiant Lieutenants is much too-thin to sustain such a long movie. What's important here are the combats, shootings, airplane pursuits, flying sequences , among the best in the last time Hollywood history. Amazing computer generator FX are realized by Digital Domain, whose owner is James Cameron. Fantastic, memorable aerial cinematography by Deam Semler is the main asset of this silly story with stunning dogfighting and horrible disco-music by BT. Numerous films appear ¨Stealth¨, the next generation aircraft, as the production star, the first movie was ¨Firefox¨(Clint Eastwood)and two with Steven Seagal(Executive decision and Flight of fury) and several in B series, especially. The motion picture is lavishly produced by Neal Moritz and professionally directed by Rob Cohen, both are usual action movies experts. Rating : Acceptable and passable for its spectacular images.
This is a well produced and entertaining film though some moments is lamentably dull, for that reason is instantly forgettable trifle. The story of three valiant Lieutenants is much too-thin to sustain such a long movie. What's important here are the combats, shootings, airplane pursuits, flying sequences , among the best in the last time Hollywood history. Amazing computer generator FX are realized by Digital Domain, whose owner is James Cameron. Fantastic, memorable aerial cinematography by Deam Semler is the main asset of this silly story with stunning dogfighting and horrible disco-music by BT. Numerous films appear ¨Stealth¨, the next generation aircraft, as the production star, the first movie was ¨Firefox¨(Clint Eastwood)and two with Steven Seagal(Executive decision and Flight of fury) and several in B series, especially. The motion picture is lavishly produced by Neal Moritz and professionally directed by Rob Cohen, both are usual action movies experts. Rating : Acceptable and passable for its spectacular images.
- mike-verdone
- Aug 8, 2005
- Permalink
- superterrificdaredevil
- Jul 27, 2005
- Permalink
'Short Circuit' meets 'Top Gun' in Rob Cohen's CGI-packed action-fest Stealth, in which a trio of ridiculously attractive elite US fighter pilots (Josh Lucas, Jamie Foxx and Jessica Biel) must do battle with the latest in aeronautical warfare technology—an Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV), flown by a computer called EDI, which goes haywire after it is struck by lightning.
Tearing out of the stratosphere at Mach Impossible to blast the crap out of anything that looks even the slightest bit foreign, the hi-tech aircraft in this film are about as stealthy as a herd of stampeding fluorescent pink elephants blowing vuvuzelas; they sure are cool looking though, and provide action fans with plenty of moments of spectacular mid-air madness, Cohen's virtual camera whipping in and around the state-of-the-art aircraft with as much speed and agility as the planes themselves.
Anyone looking for realism need not apply (the film's corny plot is about as believable as an email from a Nigerian businessman), but with endless huge explosions, a psychotic A.I. jet plane, Foxx ploughing into the side of a mountain, and gorgeous Jessica Biel in a bikini, those after some slam-bang, big-budget popcorn trash to give the old brain cells a rest could do a lot worse than Stealth.
6.5 out 10, rounded up to 7 for IMDb.
Tearing out of the stratosphere at Mach Impossible to blast the crap out of anything that looks even the slightest bit foreign, the hi-tech aircraft in this film are about as stealthy as a herd of stampeding fluorescent pink elephants blowing vuvuzelas; they sure are cool looking though, and provide action fans with plenty of moments of spectacular mid-air madness, Cohen's virtual camera whipping in and around the state-of-the-art aircraft with as much speed and agility as the planes themselves.
Anyone looking for realism need not apply (the film's corny plot is about as believable as an email from a Nigerian businessman), but with endless huge explosions, a psychotic A.I. jet plane, Foxx ploughing into the side of a mountain, and gorgeous Jessica Biel in a bikini, those after some slam-bang, big-budget popcorn trash to give the old brain cells a rest could do a lot worse than Stealth.
6.5 out 10, rounded up to 7 for IMDb.
- BA_Harrison
- Dec 10, 2010
- Permalink
If you are in need for a good dose of action, this is the film for you. By the end, you've had your "fix." Being someone who is fascinated by the Stealth bomber, I enjoyed most of the action. Only the last 15 minutes was irritating in its stupid action, not that the previous hour- plus was believable. At least it wasn't as ridiculous as those final scenes with Josh Lucas defeating 10-15 guys at once and Jessica Biel doing likewise. Lucas performs his "Kill Bill Vol. 1" routine at a warehouse while Biels is in the wilds of North Korea. In future viewings, I stop the movie before those parts.
The main story - human pilots flying Stealth bombers trying to stop a pilot-less, state-of-the- art totally computerized-driven Stealth which has gone wacky - is fun to watch. The latter is obviously very reminiscent of the computer "Hal" in the famous sci-fi film "2001: A Space Odyssey." There are more than just a few coincidences here as the computer reads lips of the people, has a mind of its own, etc. The big difference is that this updated-Hal has a heart, too. Yeah, it's really far-fetched.
However, if you can put your brain on hold for two hours and just enjoy some wild action shots, you'll enjoy this film. It's basically a fun ride.
The main story - human pilots flying Stealth bombers trying to stop a pilot-less, state-of-the- art totally computerized-driven Stealth which has gone wacky - is fun to watch. The latter is obviously very reminiscent of the computer "Hal" in the famous sci-fi film "2001: A Space Odyssey." There are more than just a few coincidences here as the computer reads lips of the people, has a mind of its own, etc. The big difference is that this updated-Hal has a heart, too. Yeah, it's really far-fetched.
However, if you can put your brain on hold for two hours and just enjoy some wild action shots, you'll enjoy this film. It's basically a fun ride.
- ccthemovieman-1
- Apr 12, 2007
- Permalink
Stealth is devoid of higher thinking (or maybe any thinking at all). However it has couple of good things going for it:
1. Special effects are well-used. the planes and missiles and explosions rock. the dog fights do not rely on editing but are given a good effort.
2. Yes the premise is dumb - we assume correctly it would not be supported by thoughtful investigation into the mechanics behind the artificial pilot. However, the movie recognizes this fact and does not pretend to have given the matter much thought. It is straight and honest, though still mindless. But hey, that's alright sometimes.
3. The story is simple, but not linear - and that counts for a lot in a movie of this type, because it is unexpected and not required. Stealth has moments where it feels like an epic, albeit a mind-free one.
4. Have you noticed that it's often better to imply a romantic sentiment between the main characters rather than slamming it in your face, especially in an action movie which has precious little time to develop the relationship to begin with? You haven't? Uh that's not good... Anyway, Stealth doesn't kid us with a hasty obligatory romance but gives its characters some room to maneuver between inter-pilot and inter-personal relationships. What was the last summer popcorn movie you can remember that similarly uh, respected our intelligence? I am giving Stealth a lot of credit here. Let's just say if it insulted my intelligence, I was happy to let it slide this time because I was having a good time.
5. Ultimately Stealth is entertaining from beginning to end. It "respects" our intelligence by not appearing to be smarter than dumb. Stupid is less stupid when it doesn't pretend.
I hope you give this movie a chance, and notice how it differs in the formula and execution from what you may have anticipated and from other mindless summer blockbusters.
Thanks.
1. Special effects are well-used. the planes and missiles and explosions rock. the dog fights do not rely on editing but are given a good effort.
2. Yes the premise is dumb - we assume correctly it would not be supported by thoughtful investigation into the mechanics behind the artificial pilot. However, the movie recognizes this fact and does not pretend to have given the matter much thought. It is straight and honest, though still mindless. But hey, that's alright sometimes.
3. The story is simple, but not linear - and that counts for a lot in a movie of this type, because it is unexpected and not required. Stealth has moments where it feels like an epic, albeit a mind-free one.
4. Have you noticed that it's often better to imply a romantic sentiment between the main characters rather than slamming it in your face, especially in an action movie which has precious little time to develop the relationship to begin with? You haven't? Uh that's not good... Anyway, Stealth doesn't kid us with a hasty obligatory romance but gives its characters some room to maneuver between inter-pilot and inter-personal relationships. What was the last summer popcorn movie you can remember that similarly uh, respected our intelligence? I am giving Stealth a lot of credit here. Let's just say if it insulted my intelligence, I was happy to let it slide this time because I was having a good time.
5. Ultimately Stealth is entertaining from beginning to end. It "respects" our intelligence by not appearing to be smarter than dumb. Stupid is less stupid when it doesn't pretend.
I hope you give this movie a chance, and notice how it differs in the formula and execution from what you may have anticipated and from other mindless summer blockbusters.
Thanks.
I did not go into this movie with high expectations (my husband received free tickets to an advance screening). However, I was pleasantly surprised! I disagree with another reviewer - I thought the first 15 minutes were oddly paced and filmed poorly (the camera is shaking as we look in on the office of a politician initially).
However, the film picks up from there with solid, well-developed characters, especially Jamie Foxx playing the role of a smart pilot who expresses the moral quandaries of his work at one point and Jessica Biel as a strong female pilot (both physically and psychologically). The audience enjoyed the movie as you could tell from their laughter at Jamie's quips.
While the plot is a bit predictable, it truly is an enjoyable ride. Best of all, my husband is an aerospace engineer and he was impressed with the overall accuracy of the film "for a Hollywood movie." I've had to listen to him (and his co-workers) complain about other movies, but they enjoyed it too - so we give it a thumbs up in you're in the mood for an exciting action movie - or love planes - with just a touch of romance (innuendo only, nothing graphic).
However, the film picks up from there with solid, well-developed characters, especially Jamie Foxx playing the role of a smart pilot who expresses the moral quandaries of his work at one point and Jessica Biel as a strong female pilot (both physically and psychologically). The audience enjoyed the movie as you could tell from their laughter at Jamie's quips.
While the plot is a bit predictable, it truly is an enjoyable ride. Best of all, my husband is an aerospace engineer and he was impressed with the overall accuracy of the film "for a Hollywood movie." I've had to listen to him (and his co-workers) complain about other movies, but they enjoyed it too - so we give it a thumbs up in you're in the mood for an exciting action movie - or love planes - with just a touch of romance (innuendo only, nothing graphic).
- paul_bowes2003
- Jun 21, 2006
- Permalink
Let me start out be stating that this is absolutely not the movie of the year. But I rather enjoyed it anyway because of the endless amount cliché lines, the way you can't really tell if it's actually meant to be a comedy or if it's supposed to be the action/scifi-movie of the year. The perfect movie for the guy or gal who knows nothing about computers, chemistry or the air force, and couldn't give a rats ass what's wrong or right. The acting isn't much worse than what you'd expect from a high school class, but don't expect not to be offended by some terrible lines and acting jobs. Warning: This is not a movie anyone should try to think about. Doing so will make you want to throw up. Do not think about how the facts have been messed up. Do not think about how the plot must have been written in the 80's and most of all: Do not think of admitting to your friends you watched this movie and liked it. All you have to do is fall back into the seat and enjoy watching things blow up for an hour and 55 minutes.
- graham-167
- Aug 9, 2005
- Permalink
Stealth was not the greatest movie I have ever seen, but it was pretty good. The beginning started out a little bland, but as it got into it, I was on the edge of my seat! I am not really into technology, or aircraft, but it didn't play a big factor in the film at all. The storyline was well done and the performances from the actors/actresses were also very good. The events were fairly realistic and moved well. I also thought that character interactions really helped make prominent events more memorable. If you are looking for a great action, explosion, military movie, this is it! I recommend this film to people who enjoy a lot of action and really sweet visual effects!
This movie made me very happy. I felt like I was able to tell the future because it was so predictable. It also had overpriced special effects that made me smile. If only the actors were replaced with special effects, the movie would improve dramatically. My favorite person in the movie was a voice coming from an computer animated plane that looked like it shouldn't fly because it ignores all rule of physics. The worst part of the movie was the fact that it lasted more than 2 minutes. I liked the DVD menu. It was very special. After that the movie began to suck a lot. I still am angry at the individual who choose that movie. He should not be allowed to choose movies anymore. I give it one gold star for excellence. Better a gold star than an angry machine trying to kill people who don't like it. Anyways, don't waste your time watching this attempt (too nice of a word) of a movie. My little brother could have made a better one on his first try. He's only 13. Anyways it sucked.
- greaternate
- Oct 19, 2006
- Permalink
- eichelbergersports
- Jul 15, 2005
- Permalink
This is the type of movie that you need to shutdown the brain and enjoy the special effects, the beauty of Jessica Biel, the action scenes, the chemistry of Josh Lucas, Jessica Biel and Jamie Foxx, the landscapes in Thailand, the soundtrack
But the most important, i.e., the plot itself is very stupid and corny, and insults the intelligence of an audience of average IQ. In about two hours, the ozone layer might be much reduced, with the number of explosions in this story, in a world that is not in war in this moment (just avoiding). The pilots invade North Korea, Russia, and Alaska, explode, shoot, kill, but they are the "good guys", aren't they? It is better off watching a video game without playing. My vote is four.
Title (Brazil): "Stealth Ameaça Invisível" ("Stealth Invisible Menace")
Title (Brazil): "Stealth Ameaça Invisível" ("Stealth Invisible Menace")
- claudio_carvalho
- Jun 9, 2006
- Permalink
I really enjoyed Stealth. I watched it when I was in the mood for a movie I didn't have to think too much about. I was rewarded with a roller-coaster of a movie.
Yes, i know that the aeroplanes in the film wouldn't fly, it isn't realistic, and all of the other comments I have heard about it's authenticity. However, planted in the film (i know they are not mentioned much), but there are some valid issues about the use of unmanned war machines, and detaching the horror of war from war, essentially making it more morally acceptable.
To be honest, when you watch a Rob Cohen film, you really shouldn't be expecting Oscar winning stuff. You should expect entertainment, and this film delivers.
Yes, i know that the aeroplanes in the film wouldn't fly, it isn't realistic, and all of the other comments I have heard about it's authenticity. However, planted in the film (i know they are not mentioned much), but there are some valid issues about the use of unmanned war machines, and detaching the horror of war from war, essentially making it more morally acceptable.
To be honest, when you watch a Rob Cohen film, you really shouldn't be expecting Oscar winning stuff. You should expect entertainment, and this film delivers.
- bdpmoorcroft
- May 6, 2008
- Permalink
"Stealth" is a good, but not great action flick. It is about a team of 3 expert pilots who get a new pilot added to their squad. However it isn't an ordinary pilot, its a digital pilot. Its name is ed and the plane flies itself.
The computer graphics are eye candy and its hard to tell the difference between reality and the computer graphics. The story is very hard to follow and you might get lost if you don't pay close attention, however the action makes up for that. There is plenty of shooting and explosions to keep you on the edge of your seat through the entire movie.
Overall "Stealth" is an enjoyable movie.
The computer graphics are eye candy and its hard to tell the difference between reality and the computer graphics. The story is very hard to follow and you might get lost if you don't pay close attention, however the action makes up for that. There is plenty of shooting and explosions to keep you on the edge of your seat through the entire movie.
Overall "Stealth" is an enjoyable movie.
Its a fine movie that has mindless action with decent effects. Just good guys vs bad guys and robot goes rogue and then the crew has to fight the robot too.
It is no top gun, but it holds its own I guess. There is the wooden acting, cheesy dialogue and over-used clichés like the black guy dying and Russians being bad guys.
The best part about this movie has to be the set pieces, effects, locations and use of real explosions. The movie itself is really nice to look at, it just has no substance whatsoever, but that not what this movies is about.
I don't really have anything else to add except my review needs to be 600 characters long...
It is no top gun, but it holds its own I guess. There is the wooden acting, cheesy dialogue and over-used clichés like the black guy dying and Russians being bad guys.
The best part about this movie has to be the set pieces, effects, locations and use of real explosions. The movie itself is really nice to look at, it just has no substance whatsoever, but that not what this movies is about.
I don't really have anything else to add except my review needs to be 600 characters long...
- Ashrafi_Abdoelkarim
- Sep 3, 2022
- Permalink
- Reel_World
- Jul 31, 2005
- Permalink