Sahara

Sahara follows the quest of lifelong friends and marine salvage experts Dirk Pitt (Matthew McConaughey) and Al Giordino (Steve Zahn) as they search for evidence in Africa of an iron-clad battleship that disappeared during the Civil War. During their adventure, they cross paths with a scientist (Penelope Cruz) who is investigating a mysterious plague that is killing the populace of Mali.

McConaughey (who also co-produced the film) is perfectly cast as the roguish and resourceful explorer, while Cruz is convincing as the doctor; Zahn is a little too goofy for his character, but still manages to play the role with charm. It is interesting to note that the ruthless but incompetent villains are Africans of Third World nations, who are rapidly becoming Hollywood's new antagonists of choice.

The location photography is impressive and fresh. Unfortunately, the rock soundtrack tries to make the film hipper than it is, and only serves to detract from the events on screen.

Based on the novel by Clive Cussler, the story is unpredictable and has no gaping holes. There are several exciting chase sequences, plenty of gunplay, and believable stunts. Though Cussler is apparently suing the makers for "ruining" his book -- you'd think he would have learned his lesson about Hollywood adaptations after the debacle that was Raise the Titanic -- his concern is unwarranted.

Sahara is a strong and entertaining film that is worthy of a franchise. Rating: 7 out of 10.