Robert Rodriguez -- the filmmaker known for blazing action show-stoppers like El Mariachi, Desperado, From Dusk Till Dawn, and The Faculty -- has not only made a PG-rated kids movie but in the process he has also raised the bar for what's cool and acceptable in the all-too-placid world of the kids film market. Rodriguez elicits natural and engaging performances from Alexa Vega and Daryl Sabara, but even they take a back seat to the film's wonderful array of spy gadgets, set design (courtesy of production designer Cary White), and overall focus on fun. What's remarkable is that Rodriguez sacrifices none of the whirlwind pace for which his movies have become known. Spy Kids might not yet tap the best of Rodriguez's creative resources, and the story definitely leaves room for more character development, but there is a whole lot to be said for fun -- especially fun that can be shared by all.
D: Robert Rodriguez; with Antonio Banderas, Carla Gugino, Alexa Vega, Daryl Sabara.
