Aeon Flux

Exemplifying the worst facets of modern Hollywood - the rampant cannibalism of existing material (in this case an MTV animated series), a predilection for style over substance, the squandering of an A-list cast - Aeon Flux is a futuristic, spandex-clad bore.

Visually, the film holds a certain appeal, especially if your pulse quickens at the thought of Charlize Theron in a figure-hugging black catsuit, performing all manner of gravity-defying gymnastics.

The Oscar-winning actress performs many of her own stunts as the eponymous heroine and injured her neck so badly during one stunt sequence, filming was delayed for four weeks.

It wasn't worth the sweat and tears. You can only watch Theron's pert frame pirouette through the air so many times before you hanker for a coherent plot.

Screenwriters Phil Hay and Matt Manfredi do not share our concern. They are content to use the animated series as a framework for a dull and convoluted genetics thriller which poses far more questions than it answers.

And in the 25th Century, will mankind's greatest weapon really be a killer lawn?

Theron glares through the strands of her dyed-black, bobbed haircut, mentally calculating how much money she is taking home for each thrill-less minute, grateful not to be lumbered with the frizzy ginger mess which dominates McDormand's performance.

If Aeon Flux is the future, then it's anything but bright.