The Avengers (1998)

The Addams Family (1991), Batman (1966), Baywatch (2017), Charlie’s Angels (2000), Dark Shadows (2012), Downton Abbey (2019), The Dukes of Hazzard (2005), The Fugitive (1993), Get Smart (2008), Lost in Space (1998), Miami Vice (2006), Mission: Impossible (1996), and S.W.A.T. (2003). What do these movies have in common? They’re all big screen reboots of small screen shows. But unlike these pics, the big budget version of The Avengers (1998) was a box office flop. If that’s not bad enough, it also was a critical miss despite boasting a cast of A-list stars — Ralph Fiennes, Uma Thurman, and Sean Connery — plus esteemed thespians — Jim Broadbent, Fiona Shaw, and Eileen Atkins. Perhaps fans of the classic 1960s television series weren’t ready to see Patrick Macnee and Diana Rigg be replaced. Nevertheless, the 1990s action flick shows secret agent John Steed (Fiennes) and meteorologist Dr. Emma Peel (Thurman) on another adventure. This time around, the two must stop the evil Sir August de Wynter (Connery) from holding the earth ransom by controlling the weather. Why do all super villains want to do this? And will Steed and Peel be able to thwart him? More importantly, will we see any flesh flashed in the process? Fortunately, the answer to the last question is yes. During a steamy sauna scene, the luscious leading man heats up the screen when he shows off his sweaty chest. Better yet, we can see Ralph’s ass crack. Suffice it to say, Mr. Fiennes has a very fine body!