xXx Marks The Spot

Anyone who doubted that the sociopathic anti-hero of Pitch Black was destined to become heir to the action throne should probably back towards the nearest exit right about now. Such is the power of Vin Diesel that, despite some slightly shaky reviews, his new action thriller xXx tapdanced all over Mel Gibson's Signs to become number one at the US box off ice this weekend with a muscular $46 million. The gravel-throated star plays an extreme sports champion recruited by the government to turn superspy and infiltrate a nefarious organization. With explosive destruction, implausible stunts and attitude so sharp you could cut your toenails with it, Diesel's first real starring role will be with us in the UK in October.