“Ocean’s Eleven” capitalized on its ’60s predecessor’s failures, but “Ocean’s Twelve” only detracts from Steven Soderbergh’s creative spark. With no illusion about its marketing strategy and little ingenuity left, the DVD seems more like a cheap remake than anything worthwhile.Jumping on the “Bourne” bandwagon, the Ocean gang leaves the states for a romp through Europe. Unfortunately, the setting is about the only enjoyable addition to the plot this time around. Once again, the criminal masterminds plan a heist of one of the world’s most heavily guarded, and of course, most expensive objects. The storyline follows virtually the same path of “Eleven” even down to the romantic diversion — though Catherine Zeta-Jones has taken Julia Roberts’s place. The movie even plays on the same slight-of-hand moves and Topher Grace jokes.The characters seem to have lost their spunk since their debut. No. 11 of the posse, Linus (Matt Damon), the once edgy, street-wise pickpocket returns as the overly sensitive, shy nerd. Brad Pitt bucks his suave, level-headed exterior to assume the role of master thief with a soft spot for the ladies. Starting with the opening menu, “Ocean’s Twelve” falls short of expectations. Compared to its predecessor, the cheesy ’70s-era music and rapidly changing cast pictures lack the mysterious allure and creative aesthetics of “Eleven.” Music and sound effects seem thunderous while characters often seem as though they are whispering. With nothing to recommend but the feature attraction, the DVD doesn’t even try. Other than the theatrical trailer, the special features menu leaves another unsatisfactory void in a disappointing big-budget release.Though it may have been a lark for the returning cast and crew, “Ocean’s Twelve” may take the title as critically acclaimed director Steven Soderbergh’s major flop.

Ratings:

Film: 2 out of 5 stars

Picture/Sound:2 out of 5 stars

Features: 0 out of 5 stars