Fool's Gold (2008)
Following the sizzling on-screen chemistry between Kate Hudson and Matthew McConaughey in 2003's "How To Lose A Guy In Ten Days" and the subsequent success of the film within the chick-flick genre, fans of Hudson/ McConaughey have been waiting for a chance to see the good-looking duo on screen for an encore. Movie-goers across the country, across the world, fell in love with the unforced nature of the pair's on-screen romance and longed to see the duo reunite. April 2008 saw the UK cinema release of "Fool's Gold, the answer to their prayers.
A cross between "National Treasure", "Pirates of the Caribbean" and the aforementioned "How To Lose A Guy in Ten Days", "Fool's Gold" tells the story of Ben "Finn" Finnigan (McConaughey) and his soon to be ex-wife Tess (Hudson). After years of searching for the legendary lost Spanish treasure- the Queen's Dowry- Finn finally finds a lead that proves the existence and location of the infamous 18th century treasures; unfortunately for him this occurs on the same day as his divorce from the beautiful Tess. Unable to resist the temptation of a huge historical discovery though, Tess joins Finn on one last adventure. Joined by her millionaire employer Nigel Honeycutt (Sutherland) and his daughter Gemma, Tess and Finn go in search of their bounty in the seas surrounding a Key West island owned by rapper Bigg Bunny, one of the many people that Finn has managed to get on the wrong side of. But, solving mysteries is not such an easy task when facing a gangster island owner, the estranged mentor who taught you all he knows and nature at its best and worst, not to mention the irresistable forces of love.
Hudson is alluring and natural, as always; McConaughey, rugged and lovable; and although Ray Winstone's Southern accent leaves a lot to be desired, the supporting cast, including Donald Sutherland, make this film a well-rounded comedy thriller. "Fool's Gold" is exactly what you'd expect from an adventure movie- likeable characters, a sense of inevitable romance, twists and turns galore and, of course, a happy ending. Although the on-screen chemistry between the lead actors isn't as natural as it was in their original pairing, it's easy to feel Tess' inability to say no to the handsome Finn. The backdrop of sea, sun and the beautiful island photography of the Bahamas certainly helps create a feel-good aura around this film. Plus, a shirtless McConaughey does the trick for all female viewers!
For a fast-paced and fun comedy adventure, "Fool's Gold" comes highly recommended, especially this time of year. With the autumn weather cooling our spirits, a fun island frolic is just what the doctor ordered to lift our spirits and brighten our days.