Unfortunately, the filmmakers limit these lively characters to their function in the highly constructed script.

NEWYORKER: Ajami

The characters might be lively, but they are entirely one-dimensional.

FORBES: The WGA's Baffling Video Game Writing Award

Regional variations abound, but all are characterized by pithy lyrics with phrases that now permeate the everyday language of the people, melodies adapted to the story and characters, and lively parables.

UNESCO: Culture

The cast includes John Travolta, Salma Hayek and Benicio Del Toro, but the main characters are played by young actors Blake Lively ("Gossip Girl") and Aaron Johnson ("Kick-Ass"), plus Taylor Kitsch, seeking redemption after starring in "John Carter" and "Battleship, " both big-budget road kill earlier this year.

WSJ: Salma Hayek, John Travolta and Benicio Del Toro in Oliver Stone's Savages