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'Speed Racer' goes

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By Linda Cook | Tuesday, May 13, 2008 12:46 PM CDT | () comments

This image released by Warner Bros. Entertainment shows actors Emile Hirsch, left, as Speed Racer and Christina Ricci as Trixie in a scene from the action adventure "Speed Racer." (AP Photo)

It’s worth it for the eye candy alone.

The Wachowski brothers, who wrought “The Matrix,” have added computer-generated mind-boggling visuals in “Speed Racer,” a psychedelic flick if ever there was one.

Based on a cartoon that was a sort of early version of anime, this too looks more like animation, although it does include real-life performers. Those who grew up on “Speed Racer” will have a great time watching this mutation of the beloved television series.

The whole family is on board. There’s Susan Sarandon as Mrs. Racer, John Goodman as her husband Pops, Scott Porter as older brother Rex, Emile Hirsch as Speed and Paulie Litt as Spritle. Of course, Chim Chim is on hand to round out the household. Trixie is played by Christina Ricci, who is as cute as a button.

The first half-hour or so of the movie is simply dazzling. I found myself looking in every corner and detail as the gravity-defying cars sped by. There’s also a little scene — one of my favorites, in fact — in which Speed and Trixie first meet. I love the jewel-tone hearts that waft through the background.

As Speed’s racing career accelerates, he is an offered a proposal by billionaire Mr. Royalton (Roger Allam), who promises to provide Speed a life of luxury and to make Speed’s family comfortable. Pops is suspicious of anyone with that kind of money – after all, the family races because it loves the sport and not because they want to become wealthy.

There’s no question that the movie is entirely too long. It probably would have been strengthened by cutting at least 20 minutes from various racing scenes.

Still, for those of us who love the series or the finesses of the Wachowskis, this is entertaining. Watch how they deftly interweave various real-time shots that slide from one character to another. And the colors! The brightest, most gaudy colors imaginable are presented throughout — enjoy the Wachowskis’ wise use of bright clothing, right down to the characters’ shoes, to enhance every frame of this visual intoxicant.

As I watched the movie, I began to experience a feeling of déjà vu, and then I realized what I was remembering: The then-high-tech film “Tron,” is the great-grandma of “Speed Racer.”

Even if you don’t remember the original “Speed Racer” series, why not let the Wachowskis dazzle you?

Linda Cook reviews movies for GO & DO and KWQC-TV6. Contact her at (563) 383-2400 or lcook@qctimes.com.

SPEED RACER

Rating: 3 stars

Running time: Two hours and 15 minutes

Rated: PG for violence and crude language.