Charlie's Angels

This vision of the 1970s TV series from writer/director Elizabeth Banks follows a new generation of Angels (Naomi Scott, Ella Balinska, Kristen Stewart) as they look to stop dangerous technology getting into the wrong hands. The 70s franchise gets a modern makeover, evolving the concept neatly and introducing leads that feel suited to a post-#MeToo world. While the trio of stars brings something to the table, it's Stewart's wisecracking spy that stands out from the start. These freshly minted action heroes become mired in a formulaic story that doesn't make the most of their chemistry, relying instead on protracted action scenes that slow down the middle act. Equally under-served is Sam Claflin, who is quite forgettable as the evil corporate villain and limited to a few over-the-top speeches. An interesting twist picks up the pace in the last half hour, but overall these Angels deserved a more dynamic mission for their debut.