'G.I. Joe' is AWOL for critics

August 04, 2009 Generally, pics are kept from critics when it's feared that poor reviews additionally will hamper an opening that's already challenged by underwhelming public interest. "After the chasm we experienced with 'Transformers 2' between the response of audiences and critics, we chose to forgo opening-day print and broadcast reviews as a strategy to promote 'G.I. Joe,' " Par vice chairman Rob Moore told the Associated Press. "Joe" totes a reported negative cost of $175 million after a production arduous enough to spur ultimately erroneous reports of director Stephen Sommers being booted from the project.

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