Not Jumping For Joy

The film's first major set-piece, a boring fracas in Rome's magnificent Colosseum, sets the tone for the chaotic, poorly constructed action sequences that follow in Tokyo, Egypt etc. Christensen and Bell (who has a bizarre serial killer-style lair) relentlessly bicker and seem to be locked in a private duel to create the least charismatic and appealing character.

Samuel L's role here is never explained beyond the info that he's a 'Paladin' incapacitating and then stabbing jumpers, because he believes only God should have the power to be in all places at once. Now and again, he has what look like chalk marks on his face. This may have rubbed off his unflattering white hair, though that's never explained – much like how the 'jumpers' got their powers, or how it relates to Hayden's mum, fleetingly played by Diane Lane.

In the final anti-climactic reel, the movie alludes to a fuller explanation should you watch the sequel. If this kind of clap trap is deemed worthy of a follow-up, I'd rather never find out.

Find out what Hayden Christensen and Rachel Bilson had to say about working together on Jumper in our Features section.