‘Formula 51’ an eclectic, must-see film
By Erin McBrayer

If someone were to mix one part Samuel L. Jackson, one part comedy, one part action and two parts “Snatch,” he or she would end up with “Formula 51.” Despite the fact that this movie didn’t even make it into the Top 10 in its opening weekend (Oct. 18), this new action-comedy, as director Ronny Yu calls it, is worth a movie-goer’s time.

Elmo McElroy, played by Samuel L. Jackson, is a pharmacist-turned-designer drug chemist. He journeys to Liverpool, England, to sell the formula of his new legal drug.

In Liverpool, he is met by a “Yank-hating” Englishman named Felix, played by Robert Carlyle. These two unique characters set the stage for hilarity in a “Snatch” or “Pulp Fiction” fashion.

While on his journey, McElroy becomes the target of several greedy drug dealers in search for a new kind of high. They think McElroy has the new drug they need to increase their cash flow.

Another character, whose makeup could have been better, is the Lizard. This role, played by Meatloaf, is the biggest he has ever played. That isn’t really saying much here.

Meatloaf plays a decent bad guy, but don’t expect him to be popping up in similar roles anytime soon. The Lizard personifies the “Yank” stereotype with his unintelligent comments and hick accent.

“Formula 51” does have its share of violence and gore. (This is where I must suggest covering your eyes if you see the movie just before dinner). There are some scenes that might teach a stomach to do flips.

Making a film that successfully incorporates British humor with American humor and their two very different mindsets into one very funny piece is quite a feat. Yu’s direction of the film was well done. There are definitely hints of Guy Ritchie style, but they work well without being too blatant.

The soundtrack of the movie is choppy. It jumps from hip-hop to dance music to relaxed guitar. In “Formula 51,” some song choices should have been reconsidered and replaced. Sometimes the song is more noticeable than the scene.

Overall, this movie is definitely worth seeing. “Formula 51” deserves a trip to the theater, rather than just renting it when it gets to video. Some of the scenes just wouldn’t have the same effect without the big screen.

After all, how could you miss a movie where Samuel L. Jackson wears a kilt the entire time for no obvious reason?