I’m having a really hard time being open minded about Ocean’s Thirteen. Steven Soderbergh’s remake of Ocean’s Eleven is one of my top ten favorite movies (and no, I haven’t seen the original with Frank Sinatra). The movie was such a slick, clever heist, and it owed much of its success to Ted Griffin’s taut script.

My expectations were high for Ocean’s Twelve, but the movie couldn’t live up to its predecessor. Even though it was only ten minutes longer, Twelve seemed to drag. Ted Griffin didn’t return to write the sequel and the difference was notable. There was none of the “aha!” element that made the first movie so great. I left the theatre wishing I could get those two hours back.

I am still bitter about Ocean’s Twelve, and that bitterness is carrying over to Ocean’s Thirteen. Sometimes, sequels are not a good idea. Could you imagine a sequel to Pulp Fiction or When Harry Met Sally? Those movies are not going to be improved upon, and their producers were wise to leave well enough alone. Ocean’s Twelve and Thirteen were made simply because they are part of a successful franchise.

There is nothing compelling about the Ocean’s Thirteen trailer, with the possible exception of Al Pacino. Then again, this is still a movie that stars George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Don Cheadle, and the rest of the gang. Steven Soderbergh is back, though Ted Griffin is not. My expectations are low, but I will eventually see Ocean’s Thirteen. This time I’ll save my money and RENT IT.

Ocean’s Thirteen is not yet rated and opens on June 8. (Official site)