Doom (2005)

Space Marines are sent to investigate strange events at a research facility on Mars but find themselves at the mercy of genetically enhanced killing machines.

Another movie adapted from a game; the synopsis is enough to know what it is, nothing more.

On rewatching: unexciting action without much plot - and photographed in constant darkness.

Maltin BOMB: "Brainless, high-testerone sci-fi-horror drivel...Unimaginative ALIEN clone is all special effects, gore, and noise; a dumb script and leaden pacing don't help."

Empire State (2013)

Two childhood friends plan to rob an armored car depository, but an NYPD officer stands in their way.

OK, but unremarkable crime story, although it does document a true unusual and unlikely heist.

The Rundown (2003)

A tough aspiring chef is hired to bring home a mobster's son from the Amazon but becomes involved in the fight against an oppressive town operator and the search for a legendary treasure.

Competently made and occasionally funny action comedy; the plot itself is silly and not very original.

Halliwell*: "A vehicle intended as an easy ride for a new action star; it runs smoothly  and The Rock charms when he is not beating up the opposition."

Maltin**1/2: "This cheerfully derivative adventure is mindlessly entertaining but might have been better with a less campy approach and fewer slo-mo body-slammin' fights and stunts."