Crocodile Dundee in Los Angeles (2001) Movie Review
A Lighter, Quirky Adventure with a Familiar Face
Crocodile Dundee in Los Angeles, directed by Simon Wincer, is the third installment in the popular Crocodile Dundee franchise. Released in 2001, the film stars Paul Hogan, Linda Kozlowski, and Jere Burns, continuing the adventures of the iconic Australian bushman, Mick Dundee. This time, the character ventures into the bustling city of Los Angeles, bringing his unique brand of outback wisdom and charm to the urban jungle. While it retains the humor and lightheartedness of its predecessors, it falls short of the originality and impact of the earlier films.
Plot Overview
In this sequel, Mick Dundee (Paul Hogan) and his partner, Sue Charlton (Linda Kozlowski), have settled into a comfortable life in Australia. When Sue’s son, Mikey (Serge Cockburn), is kidnapped by a criminal organization in Los Angeles, Mick travels to the city to rescue him. With his distinctive bushman skills and an outsider’s perspective, Mick navigates the high-tech, fast-paced environment of LA, encountering a variety of humorous and challenging situations.
The film follows Mick as he uses his unconventional methods to track down the kidnappers and save Mikey. Along the way, he clashes with LA’s glitzy lifestyle, providing plenty of comedic moments as he tries to make sense of the urban environment.
Characters and Performances
Paul Hogan reprises his role as Mick Dundee with his signature charisma and comedic timing. Hogan’s portrayal of the lovable and rugged Aussie continues to be a highlight, though the character’s fish-out-of-water antics in Los Angeles feel less fresh than in the original films.
Linda Kozlowski returns as Sue Charlton, providing a solid performance as the supportive partner and mother. Her character’s emotional investment in rescuing Mikey adds a layer of urgency to the plot.
Jere Burns, as the film’s antagonist, provides a standard villain performance without the depth or menace of memorable adversaries from previous installments. The supporting cast, including Geraldine Brophy and Jonathan Banks, adds to the film’s humor and light-heartedness.
Direction and Cinematography
Director Simon Wincer brings a breezy and straightforward approach to the film, focusing on humor and family-friendly entertainment. The cinematography captures the contrast between the Australian outback and the urban landscape of Los Angeles, highlighting the cultural differences that drive the comedy.
While the film’s visual style is polished and engaging, it lacks the cinematic flair of its predecessors. The action sequences and comedic set pieces are well-executed but often feel repetitive and less inventive.
Themes and Humor
Crocodile Dundee in Los Angeles continues to explore themes of cultural clash, adventure, and the enduring appeal of the fish-out-of-water scenario. Mick Dundee’s naivety and unconventional methods provide a source of humor as he navigates the complexities of modern urban life.
The film’s humor is largely derived from Mick’s interactions with LA’s extravagant lifestyle, including his bemusement with technology, fashion, and social customs. While the comedy is often light and family-friendly, it sometimes lacks the sharp wit and originality of the earlier films in the franchise.
Streaming and Rental Options in the US
For those interested in watching Crocodile Dundee in Los Angeles, there are several streaming and rental options available in the United States:
- Streaming Services: The film is available on Amazon Prime Video and Hulu. Both platforms offer access to a wide range of movies and TV shows, making it convenient for subscribers to watch the film.
- Rental/Purchase: You can rent or purchase the movie on Amazon, iTunes, Google Play, and Vudu. These platforms allow viewers to rent the film for a limited time or purchase it for ongoing access.
Final Verdict
Crocodile Dundee in Los Angeles offers a light-hearted and entertaining continuation of the beloved franchise. While it successfully maintains the charm and humor of its predecessor, it struggles to recapture the originality and impact of the earlier films. Paul Hogan’s performance as Mick Dundee remains a highlight, but the film’s reliance on familiar comedic scenarios and predictable plot elements makes it less memorable.
For fans of the series, Crocodile Dundee in Los Angeles provides a nostalgic return to a familiar character in a new setting. However, those seeking the innovation and excitement of the original film may find it lacking. With multiple streaming and rental options available, audiences in the United States can easily access Crocodile Dundee in Los Angeles and enjoy the continued adventures of Mick Dundee.
