In this summer of sequels, prequels, remakes and spinoffs there is a lot of nostalgia wafting through the theater along with the smell of buttered popcorn. But I am not use if any will be able to top The A-Team for action, humor and a total package of summer fun.

The film starts at the very beginning of the story as Hannibal (Liam Neeson), Face (Bradley Cooper), Murdock (Sharlto Copley) and B.A. Baracus (Quinton 'Rampage' Jackson) become one of the most called upon and successful military units in service. When they are framed and stripped of their credentials they must prove their innocence all while being military fugitives of justice. This means going against corrupt military, Black Ops and the CIA; all of course with the style, wit and B.A. attitude that made the TV series such a hit.

What works best for this film is that you do not have to have been a fan of the show to join the action. The characters are unique and well written and if any liberties were taken you would never know. Die hard fans may nit pick a few things but why do it? There is plenty in this movie that works. It dives right into the action and takes you on a thrill ride long before the opening credits have finished. Each character is so different that when put together they truly enhance each other which makes for lots of humor and buddy-buddy moments.

If there is any fault to be found it is in the story arch of Face and a female military person from his past. I am sure Hollywood is elated that women are allowed in the military or they would have a hard time fitting these romantic moments into the plot. Granted it goes right along with Face’s character but adds little to the over all spectrum of the film. Props go to Jackson on filling the shoes of Mr. T. His TV persona was so recognizable that to imitate him would be a crime but the overall figure had to be there to work. This role was cast to a “T”.

The A-Team is rated PG-13 for intense sequences of action and violence throughout, language and smoking. The action is in the realm of TV violence with lots of explosions and fist-a-cuffs. The language is a little strong so that is the only issue that parents may want to take into consideration. It is the perfect guy film but I think most women will find the story and characters strong enough to keep them entertained. I give it 4 out of 5 chopper rides. Perfect casting, solid acting and a well directed script make this one of the best summer flicks of the last two seasons. So says Matt Mungle.