What do you think about the LA Times review of "GI Joe"--a wee bit condescending and elitist?

Condescending and elitist? Not at all. It seems to be pointing out the target audience for the film. After all, G.I. Joe appears to be following a long tradition of US films in which America saves the world, be it the two world wars, the defeat of Napoleon, the French Revolution, the 100 Years War, the Black Death, repelling the Vikings, defeating the Romans and so on...