Rating: 4 Pulses

Rated PG-13

In a summer of serialized blockbusters, Ocean’s Thirteen stands out from the pack, providing a whimsical and kaleidoscopic break from pirates and superheroes.

Forget that its last sequel was a total farce: this one goes back to its roots, derived from the original 1960 Rat Pack feature starring Frank Sinatra and his boys.

Set again in sultry Las Vegas, this slick rendition finds Danny Ocean (Clooney) and his crew avenging the double cross of pal Rueben Tishkoff (Gould), who’s been swindled by hotelier Willy Bank (Pacino) into giving up his share of the new property.

Ocean’s crew of 13 men sets out to bankrupt the new hotel and casino on opening night, employing clever disguises and costumes as creatively as in their previous endeavors to help aid them in their conspiracy.

The film is savvy and lively, complemented by David Holmes’ jazzy, up-tempo score.

Soderberg, who did his own camerawork under the pseudonym Peter Andrews, creates a vibe that harkens back to the ’60s and ’70s with vibrant use of color and light. Though heavily stylized, it reflects the contradiction of old and new Vegas, as much a theme of the film as is the revenge heist.

Screenwriters Brian Koppelman and David Levien deliver sharp dialogue without embellishing the technological jargon, creating an entertaining film that doesn’t get too complicated or ornate. It’s easy to follow and fun to watch, especially with a cast that’s full of Hollywood royalty.

Clooney and Pitt have a great onscreen chemistry, keenly finishing each other’s sentences. The supporting crew provides humor and dexterity, but Pacino is the man of the hour, providing a smooth, commanding performance.

With its satisfying cast and a genuinely entertaining plot, Thirteen is a refreshing break from its threequel counterparts currently consuming the theater.