Watch CBS News

"Charlie's Angels" needs to spread its wings

From left, Rachael Taylor, Minka Kelly and Annie Ilonzeh in a scene from ABC's "Charlie's Angels." ABC

(CBS) "Charlie's Angels" makes an hour of TV watching seem like a hell of a long time.

The 2011 reboot of Aaron Spelling's 1970s hit about three glamour-girl crimefighters working for a boss named Charlie Townsend sticks remarkably close to the original. Only the clothes and the cars have been updated.

Pictures: New fall TV on ABC

That may be the chief problem with this seriously flawed TV show.

In the 40 years since the first show aired, a lot has changed for women, from their position in the workplace to their relationships with men and with one another. But you would never know it from this show.

The characters remain the male fantasy of independent women. Real women don't look like that or act like that.

In one scene, an angel rappels down a wall and knocks out three brawny guys with a few well-placed karate chops - all without breaking a nail, never mind mussing her well-coiffed head or ripping her designer duds.

Stars Rachael Taylor, Minka Kelly and Annie Ilonzeh have very little to work with here. Their characters are one dimensional and the plots are flimsy.

Yes, there are lots of "jiggles," and explosions and car chases and maybe that, along with the nostalgia factor, may be enough to satisfy some viewers. But I, for one, would like to see those angels spread their wings a bit.

What did you think? Take our poll and discuss your views in the comments below.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.