Code Name The Cleaner is a 2007 American action-comedy film that blends humor, suspense, and action in a story filled with intrigue, amnesia, and secret agents. Directed by Les Mayfield, the movie stars Cedric the Entertainer as the lead character, Jake Rodgers, who finds himself caught in a world of conspiracies, mysterious villains, and unexpected twists. Despite receiving mixed-to-poor reviews, the film has become a quirky piece of entertainment worth discussing. In this article, we will explore the plot, the cast, the reception, and the overall impact of “Code Name: The Cleaner” on action-comedy films.
The Plot: A Janitor Caught in a Web of Espionage
At the heart of Code Name The Cleaner is Jake Rodgers, a janitor who wakes up in a hotel room next to a dead body and a suitcase full of cash. With a bruise on his head and no memory of the events that led to this moment, Jake is thrust into a world of espionage and danger. He meets a mysterious woman named Diane (played by Nicollette Sheridan) who claims to be his wife and takes him to a large mansion, where he grows suspicious about his life.
As the movie progresses, Jake’s search for answers leads him to a company called DART (Digital Arts), where he is told that he works as a janitor. Diane claims Jake stole a computer chip, and soon FBI agents, including Agent Shaw (played by Callum Keith Rennie), are on his trail. Alongside Gina (played by Lucy Liu), a CIA agent, Jake uncovers the truth behind the stolen chip and begins to piece together his past.
Jake’s journey is filled with comedic moments, as he transitions from an amnesiac janitor to a person with a secret past. His memory returns gradually, revealing that he was once involved in covert operations. However, the film mixes this serious plot with humor, making it an action-comedy with surprising twists and turns.
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The Cast: Strong Performances from Comedic and Dramatic Actors
Cedric the Entertainer brings his unique comedic flair to the role of Jake Rodgers. Known for his work in comedy, Cedric infuses the film with his signature humor, often turning serious situations into funny moments. Despite his comedic background, he successfully takes on the role of an action hero in this unconventional spy story.
Lucy Liu, playing Gina, brings depth to the role of a CIA agent caught between professional duty and personal feelings. Her performance adds a level of intrigue and complexity to the film, especially as she navigates her relationship with Jake.
Nicollette Sheridan plays Diane, the femme fatale who seduces Jake and plays a central role in the plot. Her character is pivotal in creating the mystery and tension surrounding Jake’s past. The chemistry between Sheridan and Cedric is part of what makes the film entertaining, adding layers of complexity to Jake’s journey.
Mark Dacascos also delivers a solid performance as Eric Hauck, the antagonist who is intent on recovering the stolen chip. His role provides a threat to Jake, pushing the storyline forward.
The Reception: A Mixed Bag of Reviews
“Code Name: The Cleaner” was released to overwhelmingly negative reviews, with critics pointing out the film’s lack of originality and humor. Rotten Tomatoes awarded the film a meager 4% based on 84 reviews, indicating general disappointment. The critics noted that the jokes felt worn-out and the action sequences were uninspired.
On Metacritic, the film scored a 33/100, which is considered generally unfavorable. The film’s action-comedy balance did not resonate well with audiences, as it failed to make a lasting impression in the genre. Many felt that the movie could not decide whether it wanted to be a serious spy thriller or a comedy, leading to an inconsistent tone throughout.
Despite the negative reviews, “Code Name: The Cleaner” still garnered a cult following of viewers who appreciated its lighthearted take on espionage films. For those seeking a light action-comedy experience, it offers an entertaining (albeit flawed) option.
Box Office and Home Media
Upon its release, the film grossed $10.3 million worldwide, which was disappointing given its $20 million production budget. This poor performance at the box office meant the film was not a commercial success. However, it found a second life on DVD, where it sold around 224,000 units, generating approximately $4.49 million in home media sales.
The movie’s release on DVD helped it find its niche audience. Despite its initial failure at the box office, the film’s comedic elements and quirky premise made it a guilty pleasure for some viewers.
A Few Memorable Moments
While “Code Name: The Cleaner” may not have received universal acclaim, it does offer some memorable moments. One of the most entertaining aspects of the film is Jake’s gradual realization of his past. As he starts to remember his former life as a secret agent, the audience is treated to a mix of action and comedy. Jake’s transformation from a clueless janitor to a man who uncovers a vast conspiracy is both humorous and thrilling.
Another standout moment is the chemistry between Cedric the Entertainer and Lucy Liu. Their interactions bring a level of charm and warmth to the film, providing a fun contrast to the tension of the espionage plot.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main plot of “Code Name: The Cleaner”?
The movie follows Jake Rodgers, a janitor who wakes up with amnesia next to a dead body and a suitcase full of money. He becomes entangled in a conspiracy involving a stolen computer chip, secret agents, and government intrigue, all while trying to uncover his true identity.
Who plays the lead role in “Code Name: The Cleaner”?
The lead role of Jake Rodgers is played by Cedric the Entertainer, known for his comedic work. He brings humor and action to the role, making the film a unique blend of comedy and espionage.
Was “Code Name: The Cleaner” successful at the box office?
No, the film grossed only $10.3 million against a $20 million production budget, making it a commercial failure. However, it found success in the home media market.
Why did critics dislike “Code Name: The Cleaner”?
Critics pointed out that the film lacked originality, with tired jokes and predictable action scenes. It struggled to balance comedy and espionage, leading to an inconsistent tone that didn’t resonate with audiences.
Conclusion
“Code Name: The Cleaner” may not have been a critical or commercial success, but it remains an interesting action-comedy that tries to do something different in the spy genre. With Cedric the Entertainer’s comedic timing, a fun cast, and a plot filled with twists, the film offers a light-hearted escape for viewers seeking a mix of humor and action. While it may not have set the box office on fire, it holds a special place for those who enjoy a good (and goofy) spy thriller.
Whether you love it or hate it, “Code Name: The Cleaner” is a film that continues to entertain audiences in its own quirky way. Its legacy lives on through its DVD sales and cult following, proving that sometimes, a film’s charm isn’t about the critics—it’s about the entertainment it provides.