Birthday Girl

A milquetoast English bank clerk (Ben Chaplin) gets a lot more than he bargained for when he sends away for a Russian e-mail-order bride (Nicole Kidman) in this semi-comical, semi-romantic thriller. Coy, raccoon-eyed Kidman seems sweet and seductive until two dangerous Russian friends (French actors Mathieu Kassovitz and Vincent Cassel) come calling and force Chaplin to rob his own bank. Now a wanted man on the run from the police, our hero finds the guts to hunt down the Russians, hoping to somehow set things straight and get his girl back. A light, dry, droll undertone and ironic performances help the picture overcome its glaringly unlikely goings on. Mood-wise, however, director Jez Butterworth does a dexterous balancing act with the movie's mix of romance, excitement and humor. Optional. [Note: DVD extras include a six-minute behind-the-scenes featurette and a three-minute music video of Nicole Kidman and Robbie Williams' rendition of the classic tune "Somethin' Stupid." Bottom line: an unimpressive extras package for a so-so film.] (R. Blackwelder)