Babylon A.D. (2008) More at IMDbPro »

Vin Diesel's star vehicle "Babylon A.D." was not screened for critics prior to release. This is usually the syndrome of cinematic demise. Surprisingly, "Babylon A.D." is a competent action movie with a compelling enough futuristic messiah story by Director Mathieu Kassovitz, Eric Besnard, and Joseph Simas. This is not a stretch for Vin Diesel, who is charismatic enough to carry the movie. However, the one thing that still escapes me is the title: "Babylon A.D". After having seen the movie, I remain without a clue. Perhaps, I have to wait for the extras in the DVD release, or not. Obviously, "Babylon A.D." slid under the promotional radar. Also despite decent production value, producers apparently filmed the movie in the Czech Republic, Sweden, and France to reduce costs. Although a fan of Vin, I really was curious about "Babylon A.D.", because of Michelle Yeoh. I am a big fan of Yeoh ("Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon", "The Mummy 3"). Yeoh is beautiful and always plays strong, smart, and understated. She is a distinct strength as Sister Rebeka.

Despite itself "Babylon A.D.", ultimately works as a hero tale with the presence of Vin Diesel. In an almost incongruously touching moment in the icy tundra Melanie Thierry's Aurora asks Diesel's Toorop, "You're risking your life for me. Why?" Toroop confides "I'm tired…" He has done his share of atrocity in his life, and this may be his last grasp at redemption. He must choose whether he has "A choice to make a difference or to walk away and save yourself…" Director Kassovitz's screenplay is based on the novel by Maurice G. Dantec. Given the briefness of "Babylon A.D." which has a 90 minute running time, one wonders what was jettisoned. I suspect the original story was not exactly tailored as an action movie—the narrative is nearly minimalist. Our hero Diesel plays soldier turned mercenary Toorop, who lives in the not too distant existential future. Toorop agrees to deliver a young girl from a remote convent in Mongolia to New York City. It is unclear what value or threat she poses. The High Priestess (scary Charlotte Rampling) of the religious Neolites is intent on possessing the girl for her own means. Toorop arrives at the convent to escort Aurora (stunning beauty Thierry). Her protector Sister Rebeka (Yeoh) reminds Toorop that he must abide by 3 rules, including no foul language. Toorop tells Rebeka, "Don't f--- with me." The innocent Aurora asks "Are you a killer, Mr. Toorop?" He replies "Yes." Aurora is strangely aware of the future. Her keeper Rebeka reminds Toorop that she is "peaceful, not weak". Rebeka is a deadly martial artist. Also seeking to obtain Aurora is her mysterious father (Joel Kirby). Aurora holds the key to the future of the world.

What ensues is measured violence and betrayal all cloaked in this global conspiracy. Kassovitz orchestrates the brutal cage fighting club mayhem. And the cathartic automatic weapons showdown in New York is striking and dramatic. Diesel brings his action A-game. Michelle Yeoh is powerful and graceful in her martial arts display. Young Thierry is effective in revealing a deceptively powerful presence.

In the end "Babylon A.D." gives us the deserved payoff. The movie works really on a visceral level, not necessarily entrenched in logic. There are some gaping narrative fissures. Then again—big deal. The movie is entertaining. Vin Diesel and Michelle Yeoh are strong. Take a chance on "Babylon A.D." Then tell me what the title means.