The Marvel Cinematic Universe currently serves as a prime example of Disney's dominance over Hollywood, achieved through the acquisition of other studios and franchises. While Disney has had its own successful film series in the past, it was primarily associated with family entertainment. One such enduring franchise is the Herbie, the Love Bug series, which began in 1969, based on the sentient VW Bettle as protagonist, and became a beloved favourite among children. Despite not being as well-received by older audiences and critics, the franchise managed to endure for over a decade, concluding with "Herbie Goes Bananas" in 1980. In 2005, Disney attempted to revive the series with "Herbie: Fully Loaded," directed by Angela Robinson.

Following the prologue that uses segments from three previous films and recaps Herbie's past triumphs at various racetracks, the plot begins in the present day, showing Herbie, after a series of losing races, being condemned to a scrapyard. He is rescued by Margaret "Maggie" Peyton, the daughter of Ray Peyton Sr., a former professional racer and the owner of a small racing team. As a gift for her college graduation, Maggie receives Herbie, who seizes the opportunity to manipulate her into driving to the nearest race track, where she wins against the arrogant NASCAR driver, Trip Murphy. This triumph gives Maggie the idea to pursue professional racing, despite her father's disapproval, who prefers her brother, Ray Jr., to continue the family tradition. Meanwhile, Maggie must also deal with the vengeful Trip and the feelings she develops for the young mechanic, Kevin.

The script by Thomas Lennon and Ben Garant uses a simple but formulaic and predictable plot. The humour is rather weak, but suitable for children. Angela Robinson, best known for her work on television, provides adequate but unremarkable direction, unable to give this film anything particularly memorable. The only improvement over previous films is the use of CGI, employed in the spectacular final scene.

When this film was made, Disney's child star Lindsay Lohan was just coming of age and was in the process of trying to continue her stardom into adulthood. For a time, before her widely publicised personal issues would hamper her career, it looked like she would succeed. Her performance in "Herbie: Fully Loaded," while not particularly remarkable, was charming enough to prevent the film from turning into a complete waste of time.

Lohan, however, lacked chemistry with Justin Long and the rest of the cast wasn't particularly impressive. This includes Matt Dillon, who plays a one-dimensional villain, and Michael Keaton as her overprotective father.

"Herbie: Fully Loaded" is a watchable but generally forgettable film that can only be recommended to the most nostalgic fans of the franchise.

RATING: 4/10 (+)

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