ANYONE impatiently waiting for the next helping of Bond could do worse than make an appointment with this film.

All of the classic Bond elements are there, including a far-fetched plot involving global destruction by microscopic robots, a beautiful and capable female sidekick, a mountain hideaway for the baddies and enough high-tech gadgets to satisfy the most fanatical hardware nut.

Anyone who protests that Bond is supposed to be serious adult drama while Agent Cody Banks is clearly an unsubtle spoof aimed at children is being disingenuous.

The vein of comedy running through this film - epitomised by Ian 'Lovejoy' McShane's turn as a camp villain - is almost indistinguishable from the self-parodying excesses of the average Bond (give or take a raised eyebrow).

Although it's enjoyable enough, the main problem with this film is that it almost takes itself too seriously.

Despite the presence of the excellent Frankie Muniz (of Malcolm in the Middle fame) as our eponymous secret agent, the film lacks the verbal and visual wit of the TV show that made his name.

It's just an averagely entertaining rehash of all the spy film cliches in the book and becomes so wrapped up in its central plot that it almost forgets it's supposed to be funny.

The best scenes take place early on, when Cody's home life in suburban Seattle (which could have been lifted straight out of Malcolm in the Middle) is contrasted with the talents he displays rescuing a child from a runaway car in a breathtaking action sequence.

Despite not being as clever as it could have been, Agent Cody Banks is still watchable, thanks in the main to Muniz's charismatic performance.

Spy kids everywhere will love it.

Rating: 7/10