All About the Benjamins

Ice Cube and Mike Epps, co-stars of the stoner satires Friday and Next Friday, trade their ganja for gunplay in this grin-worthy action-comedy about a hotshot Miami bounty hunter and his elusive quarry accidentally getting caught up in a diamond heist. The plot plays second fiddle to car chases, shootouts and fisticuffs with snarling Irish bad guys sporting big facial scars; still, street-smart odd couple sniping between frustrated Cube (who co-wrote the script) and frantic Epps delivers on the comedy while director Kevin Bray keeps the action tight and stylish. All About the Benjamins is in no way original, or even all that memorable, but as lightweight entertainment it doesn't disappoint. A strong optional purchase. [Note: DVD extras include commentary with director Kevin Bray and producer Matt Alvarez, a deleted scene and gag reel at just over two minutes each, a quad of original documentaries ranging from eight to 14 minutes (covering production, stunts, and "making of" information), and a music video from the soundtrack "Told Y'all" by hip hop artist Trina. Bottom line: a decent extras package for a so-so film.] (R. Blackwelder)