It’s been a boring summer season. Not a single film I’ve seen stands out in my mind, Robin Hood anyone? For me it’s up to Christopher Nolan to save the summer with this thriller, Inception. So imagine my surprise when the first film to feel like a real blockbuster is based off everyone’s favorite cheesy 80s TV Show, The A Team.

Now, I never had high hopes for The A Team movie. I loved the show when I was 13, but remember next to nothing about the characters, save for Mr. T’s haircut. Yet, under the direction of Joe Carnahan the flick has a real sense of fun that never lets up for a minute.

The original A Team.

The story revolves around a team of eccentric/elite soldiers who go out on covert missions that no sane person would ever attempt. There’s the grizzled leader, Hannibal, (Liam Neeson) the lady’s man, Face, (Bradley Cooper) the badass, B.A., (Quinton ‘Rampage’ Jackson) and the off-kilter gearhead, Murdock, (Sharlto Copley). Together they are set up by a slezzy CIA man played by Patrick Wilison after the theft of some counterfeit plates. The team then breaks out of prision and goes on the run in a series of over the top, yet exciting action sequences. One scene in which the crew “flies” a tank would make Roger Moore’s 007 green with envy.

That style of action works perfectly for a movie like this, where the stakes are so high nothing is unbelievable. From the opening frame to the end titles the film is well paced, and the action never stops. It’s refreshing to see a summer movie of this type, where the explosions take precedent over everything else, yet I never once thought of Michael Bay. As for the plot, only a five year old or Rain Man could have kept up with the number of times the titular counterfeit plates changed hands. Now, that hardly matters, but I could have done a with a few more character moments in favor of that exposition.

The plan is "coming together."

Even though the plot tries to get in the way of the fun, the actors all do a great job conveying a sense of excitement, fear, comedy, and exhilaration that comes from doing barrel roles in a medical chopper. Much credit must go to the casting director, as each actor is perfect in their role. My personal favorite was District 9 star Sharlto Copley as the crazed pilot Murdock. Even if his American accent was suspect he nailed every one-liner he was given. I’m also glad Liam Neeson has decided to become an “A List” action hero as of late. He’s one of my favorite actors and deserves all the attention he is getting. Hell, even Jessica Biel was decent as Bradley Cooper’s love interest.

All in all The A Team would have been a better summer opener than Iron Man 2. It has all the fun, excitement, and comedy that you can pack into two hours of a popcorn induced stupor. As the tagline suggests, no “plan B” is needed.