The Scorpion King (HD DVD)

The worst of the Mummy franchise spawned films is the first to come to HD DVD as The Scorpion King makes its high-def debut. Starring The Rock as the title character this film doesn't reference the two Mummy predecessors but certainly has the look of those other films even though Stephen Sommers isn't aboard to direct. Instead he hands the reigns to Chuck Russell, who since this film has not directed anything but is reportedly readying a remake of the classic horror Piranha... yeah, that should be good.

As for this HD DVD, The Scorpion King, just as I assume will be the other Mummy films, is perfect for the format as it is highly stylized in the glowing yellow of ancient Egypt. The look of this film is undeniably fantastic and the sound is boosted as well. Unfortunately this movie is hardly good enough to warrant a buy. Universal is making the right decision to release it first leaving wanting customers drooling for their beloved Mummy and Mummy Returns, but it is not worth it.

The story is not at all entertaining and this is not the role for The Rock. Whereas in The Rundown he was able to use some of his charm and charisma to help the storyline, here he is asked to snarl and then toss in a few corny jokes. It definitely has the feel of the Mummy films, but it is not at all as entertaining.

Special features wise you are getting what you got on the DVD and what is highly annoying is if you are interested in watching them you are going to have to flip the disc over to the standard edition side. Please tell me who is out there that enjoys or doesn't mind flipping the disc over for the special features? Even though there are several making-of featurettes, outtakes and even a Godsmack music video the best of the bunch is The Rock commentary which is always good. Even though this role is not the best one suited for his style is still entertaining to listen to, that is if you are going to spend the money on this release.

Overall, this is a great looking, special effects filled film that is not worth the disc it is printed on. The Scorpion King is a disappointment when compared to its adventurous counterparts. When Sommers won't even direct it you know there is a problem, just look at Van Helsing as evidence of that. If he thought that was good enough to direct and this wasn't - well - I don't think I need to say more.