Push **

A passable present-day sci-fi action/thriller, "Push" makes excellent use of Hong Kong for flavor, decor, color, and multi-faceted, layered sets that are great fun to destroy. Kudos to director Paul McGuigan and cinematographer Peter Sova, who have worked together before ("Lucky Number Slevin," "Wicker Park.") The energy and movement in the film are its best features.

The script is low on developmental power, resorting to narration to set it all up, and features a deadly power-enhancing serum that "no one has survived." (So why do they keep trying to use it?) The acting is flat. Even Dakota Fanning, who admittedly doesn't have much to work with, struggles to find the right tone as a kid who can see the future and tries to save fellow second-generation mutant Chris Evans. Evans disappoints; I would rather have seen more intensity and less Keanu Reeves from him.

The story involves a slew of supernaturally talented humans who have various powers: telekinesis, clairvoyance, healing, suggestion (as in implanting false memories), and screams that can shatter rocks, let alone glass. The good ones are hiding from the evil government agency that wants to use them as weapons. There are some good fights, double-crosses, and a raft of colorful characters.

See it for the color, action, and locations. Pay no attention to the story and you'll be just fine.

Rated PG-13. 111 minutes. Paul McGuigan - Director, David Bourla - Writer, Bruce Davey - Producer, William Vince - Producer, Glenn Williamson - Producer, Peter Sova - Cinematographer, Neil Davidge - Composer, François Séguin - Production Designer, Nicolas Trembasiewicz - Editor. Produced and distributed by Summit Entertainment.

Principal actors:Chris Evans, Dakota Fanning, Camilla Belle, Djimon Hounsou, Maggie Siff, and Scott Michael Campbell.